Dr. Neeraj Chaudhary, Director Robotic and Laparoscopic GI-HPB Surgery and Oncology, Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida
Gallbladder cancer, although less talked about compared to other cancers, is a serious condition that requires more attention and awareness. Gallbladder cancer is a significant health concern in India.In 2022, India reported 21,780 new cases of gallbladder cancer, making it the second-highest in the world after China. With its subtle symptoms and aggressive nature, early detection is key to improving patient outcomes and survival rates.
Understanding Gallbladder Cancer
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Gallbladder cancer starts in the gallbladder, a small organ beneath the liver. Although it is rare, its diagnosis often comes at an advanced stage, making it particularly deadly. The gallbladder’s location deep within the body means early tumours often go undetected until they cause significant symptoms.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the risk of developing gallbladder cancer, including chronic inflammation from gallstones, which is a major risk factor. Women are more frequently diagnosed with gallbladder cancer than men, and the risk increases with age, particularly in those over 65. Excess body weight is also linked to an elevated risk. Additionally, a family history of gallbladder cancer can increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
Symptoms to Watch For
Early stages of gallbladder cancer are often asymptomatic, but as the disease advances, symptoms may emerge, including abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right section, jaundice (characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes), nausea and vomiting, bloating, and unexplained weight loss.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing gallbladder cancer typically involves imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRIs, followed by a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. Blood tests may also be conducted to check for liver function and tumor markers.
Treatment options for gallbladder cancer vary based on the cancer’s stage and the patient’s overall health. For early-stage cancer, the primary treatment is surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy), while advanced cases may require removal of part of the liver and surrounding tissues.
Radiation therapy, utilizing high-energy rays, targets and kills cancer cells, often used post-surgery to eradicate any remaining cancerous tissue. Chemotherapy involves powerful drugs to eliminate fast-growing cancer cells, especially when the cancer has metastasized beyond the gallbladder. Targeted therapy focuses on specific abnormalities within cancer cells, inhibiting their growth and spread.
The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection significantly improves the prognosis for gallbladder cancer patients. Regular check-ups and awareness of risk factors can lead to earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment. Healthcare providers stress the importance of seeking medical advice if any symptoms or risk factors are present.
Gallbladder cancer, though rare, poses a significant health threat due to its aggressive nature and late diagnosis. By raising awareness about its risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options, early detection and improved survival rates can be achieved. Early intervention is key to combating this silent killer.
