Gallbladder Cancer

When non-medical people speak of gallbladder cancer, they're generally referring to cancers that start in the gallbladder (gallbladder adenocarcinoma) or the bile duct (cholangiocarcinoma).

Gallbladder cancer and bile duct cancer are relatively rare but still affect approximately 9,000 people in the United States each year. These two forms of biliary tract cancers account for about 3,200 deaths in the U.S. annually. Women develop gallbladder cancer twice as often as men, and about 75 percent of gallbladder cancer cases appear in people over age 65.

Occasionally, a person will develop gallbladder cancer or cancer of the bile duct. These are rare medical conditions but they do occur. It’s not known exactly what causes the cells to deform into cancer but when the DNA in this organ is damaged, the gallbladder functions can change and this can result in cells growing out of control and forming a malignant tumor.

It’s believed that the DNA located in the cells of the biliary tract can be damaged by toxins that are metabolized by the liver. These are released into the bile for elimination. When this process takes too long, the cells are exposed to these toxins for longer periods of time causing a tumor to form.

Gallbladder adenocarcinoma develops quickly and is capable of penetrating far into the gallbladder wall. It can also invade the nearby liver and lymph nodes, or partially block the bile duct. Bile duct cancer or cholangiocarcinoma can start anywhere the bile duct, which stretches between the liver and the small.  

Causes of Gallbladder Cancer The exact cause of gallbladder and bile duct cancers isn't currently known, but recent research seems to indicate that cells in the your biliary tract may be harmed by toxins that get into the liver. These toxins are passed into the bile for elimination. But they stay too long in the gallbladder or bile duct, the cells may be exposed to cancer-causing substances (also known as carcinogens).

Prevention It's not generally possible to prevent gallbladder and bile duct cancers, especially if you are predisposed to them by family history. However, recent studies seem to indicate there are ways you can reduce your risks. A sensible diet that includes lots of fruit and vegetables is never a bad idea. Foods from other plant sources such as whole-grain breads, cereals, rice and beans also appear to be beneficial. You should also do the following.

• Avoid high fat food, especially if it's fried.
• Regular exercise seems to help by regulating blood sugar and insulin efficiently.
• Keep your weight down. Obesity is especially tough on the gallbladder and bile duct. However, avoid crash diets which also tend to be hard on your metabolism.
• Don't smoke.
• Beware of environmental toxins like harmful chemicals. If possible, avoid areas where hazardous material are manufactured.