What is present in 70-80% of gallbladder cancer cases?

Gallstone disease is recognized as a significant risk factor for gallbladder cancer, being present in 70-80% of cases. The correlation between gallstones and gallbladder cancer is attributed to the chronic inflammation and irritation caused by the stones. Over time, this persistent irritation can lead to dysplastic changes in the gallbladder epithelium, increasing the likelihood of malignant transformation.

Gallbladder cancer often develops in an environment where gallstones are present, which contributes to the higher incidence of cancer among individuals with a history of gallstone disease. The irritation and inflammation may trigger changes at the cellular level that culminate in cancer development.

While cholecystitis, pancreatitis, and liver disease can also be associated with gallbladder issues and gastroenterological conditions, they do not have the same strong direct link to gallbladder cancer prevalence as gallstone disease does. This makes gallstone disease the prominent risk factor in the majority of gallbladder cancer cases.