Gallbladder Cancer Causes and Risk Factors

Gallbladder cancer is a rare but aggressive tumor that forms in the inner lining of the gallbladder. Located beneath the liver on the right side of the abdomen, this small, pear-shaped organ stores and releases bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver to break down fats in food.

The first warning sign of gallbladder cancer may be vague abdominal pain and bloating. As the tumor grows, it can potentially spread beyond the gallbladder to nearby tissues and organs, such as the liver, or metastasize to distant areas of the body.

Due to its location deep within the abdomen and lack of specific symptoms, gallbladder cancer is usually diagnosed at an advanced stage, which can make treatment more challenging. Options may include surgery, such as a traditional or robotic cholecystectomy to remove the gallbladder and some surrounding healthy tissue. Depending on the stage of the tumor, surgical treatment may be combined with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

What causes gallbladder cancer?

Gallbladder cancer results from harmful cellular DNA changes in the gallbladder. DNA provides a “blueprint” for the processes that control all aspects of the cellular life cycle, including growth, division and death. The mutations disrupt these normally orderly processes, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and proliferation. Over time, abnormal cells can build up and form a tumor in the gallbladder.

Scientists do not yet fully understand the mechanisms behind the genetic changes that lead to gallbladder cancer. Through extensive studies, researchers have identified several factors that can increase the risk.

What are the risk factors for gallbladder cancer?

Risk factors are characteristics, behaviors and exposures that can increase the likelihood of developing gallbladder cancer, but they do not directly cause it. While some risk factors can be controlled, others cannot. The most significant risk factor for gallbladder cancer is a history of gallstones.

Gallbladder cancer risk factors that can be controlled

By making healthy lifestyle changes, it may be possible to control certain gallbladder cancer risk factors, such as:

• Poor nutrition – Consuming a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet may lead to gallstone formation.
• Obesity and excess body weight – Carrying excess body fat increases the likelihood of gallbladder inflammation and gallstone formation, both of which significantly contribute to the risk of gallbladder cancer.
• A sedentary lifestyle – Physical inactivity can increase the risk of gallbladder cancer, while regular exercise can help reduce it.
• Smoking – Tobacco use is a major risk factor for most types of cancer, including gallbladder cancer.
• Alcohol consumption – Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages has been linked to gallbladder cancer.

Gallbladder cancer risk factors that cannot be controlled

Certain gallbladder cancer risk factors cannot be controlled, such as:

• Advanced age – Most cases are diagnosed after age 70.
• Personal health history – Individuals who have gallstones, gallbladder polyps, chronic gallbladder inflammation, calcification of the gallbladder wall (porcelain gallbladder), bile duct cysts or other bile duct abnormalities are at heightened risk.
• Family medical history – Individuals who have a genetic condition that predisposes them to gallstones or a close family member who was diagnosed with gallbladder cancer are at risk.

Can gallbladder cancer be prevented?

Preventing gallbladder cancer is challenging due to its association with several uncontrollable risk factors, including advanced age and genetics. However, by taking steps to manage the controllable risk factors, such as maintaining a balanced, fiber-rich diet, it may be possible to reduce the risk and promote overall good health.

Benefit from world-class care at Moffitt Cancer Center

As a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Moffitt is a respected leader in gallbladder cancer research. The scientists and clinicians in our renowned Gastrointestinal Oncology Program are continually investigating gallbladder cancer causes and risk factors, including the link between inflammation and cellular DNA damage. We offer the latest treatments for gallbladder cancer, including robotic-assisted cholecystectomy and a robust portfolio of clinical trials.

If you would like to learn more about gallbladder cancer causes and risk factors, you can request an appointment with a specialist in our Gastrointestinal Oncology Program by calling 1-888-663-3488 or submitting a new patient registration form online. We do not require referrals.