Introduction

Did you know, India contributes to about 10% of the global GBC (Gallbladder Cancer) burden? With a high incidence rate, the disease poses a significant threat to the Indian population. Therefore, it is essential for you to understand the nature of the disease.

In the following section, Dr. Sanjoy Mandal, the best cancer surgeon in Kolkata, lists and explains the GBC symptoms, causes, risk factors, and preventive measures.

GBC Symptoms 

In case you experience any of the following symptoms, consult a doctor as soon as possible. Gallbladder cancer, if diagnosed at an early stage, can be effectively treated.

  • Pain in the abdomen, particularly in the upper right portion
  • Bloating
  • Unintended weight loss
  • The white area of the eyes; and skin turn yellow (jaundice)

GBC Causes

The exact cause is unknown. What doctors know is that gallbladder cancer develops when healthy gallbladder cells mutate their DNA. These changes cause the cells to grow indefinitely and accumulate, forming a tumor while other cells die. Over time the tumor can grow larger than your gallbladder and spread to different parts of your body.

GBC Risk Factors

Factors that can increase the risk of GBC include:

  • If you are a woman, there is a higher chance of you developing GBC than men.
  • The risk of GBC is directly proportional to your age.
  • If you have or have had gallstones, you are at risk of developing GBC. Larger the gallstones, the higher the risk of GBC. Still, it is a rare occurrence for people with gallstones to form GBC.
  • Other gallbladder diseases that can increase the risk of GBC include infection, polyps and chronic inflammation.
  • Bile duct inflammation that causes bile to drain from the gallbladder and liver increases the risk of gallbladder cancer.

Measures to prevent GBC

  • Stay active and maintain a healthy weight
  • Plan and follow a balanced diet
  • Try to avoid exposing yourself to asbestos
  • Removal of Gallbladder with gallstones in Endemic Area
  • Manage your cholesterol levels
  • Avoid smoking and drinking
  • Go for a periodic ultrasound check-up of the abdomen if you are above the age of 50

Follow the above tips given by Dr. Sanjoy Mandal, the best cancer doctor in Kolkata, to lower your chance of developing GBC.

Conclusion

The above measures will help you lead a healthy life and lower your risk of having GBC. However, this disease cannot be permanently prevented. In case you experience the symptoms listed above, consult Dr. Sanjoy Mandal, the best onco surgeon in Kolkata. In the case of GBC, quality health care is of paramount importance. If diagnosed at an early stage, with the proper treatment, GBC can be effectively cured.