Topic: “Rising Cases of Gallbladder Stones Among Indians – What You Must Know”
Guest: Dr. Yogananda Reddy, Senior Gastroenterologist, Bangalore Gastro Center
Gallbladder stones – or gallstones – were once thought to affect mainly older individuals or those with specific lifestyles. But today, Indians of all age groups, including people in their 20s and 30s, are being diagnosed with gallstones at alarming rates.
To understand why cases are rising, what symptoms we should look for, and how to prevent complications, HealthViews India spoke to Dr. Yogananda Reddy [MBBS, MRCP (UK), FRCP (UK), CCT (UK), FEBGH (European Board)], one of Bangalore’s leading gastroenterologists and the founder of Bangalore Gastro Center.
In this insightful conversation, Dr. Reddy sheds light on the hidden causes behind gallstones, the latest treatments, and why awareness is key.
Interview Questions & Answers on Rising Cases of Gallbladder Stones in Indians
Q1: Dr. Reddy, we’re hearing that gallbladder stones are now common even among younger Indians. Why is this trend rising?
A: You’re absolutely right – we are seeing more cases across all age groups, even teenagers in some rare cases. The main reasons are dietary and lifestyle changes. Indians are eating more processed foods, refined oils, and fast foods that are high in unhealthy fats.
Another major factor is sedentary lifestyles. People are sitting longer hours, moving less – this slows down digestion and bile flow. Add to this rising obesity, hormonal factors, and uncontrolled diabetes, and we have a perfect storm for gallstone formation.
Q2: What exactly are gallstones, and how do they form?
A: Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid (bile) that form in the gallbladder, a small pear shaped organ under your liver. These stones can be as small as sand particles or as big as a golf ball. They form when there’s too much cholesterol in bile or when the gallbladder doesn’t empty properly. Over time, this leads to sand like crystals called sludge that clump into formation of stones.
Q3: What symptoms should people watch out for? Are there early signs?
A: Some gallstones are silent and cause no symptoms – we discover them incidentally on scans done for other reasons like annual health check-up. But when symptoms occur, the most common ones are:
- Sudden, intense pain in the upper right abdomen or in the centre (especially after fatty meals)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Bloating, indigestion, or discomfort after eating
- In severe cases, yellowing of the skin/eyes (jaundice)
If you have sudden severe abdominal pain lasting more than an hour seek medical help immediately.
Q4: Are there certain groups of people more at risk for gallstones?
A: Yes. We call it in medical textbooks the “5 F’s rule” in medicine – Female, Fat, Fertile, Forty, and Family history.
Women (especially after pregnancy) are at higher risk due to hormonal changes. People who are overweight, in their 40s or older, and those with a family history of gallstones are also more vulnerable. But now, due to lifestyle factors, we are seeing gallstones in men and even young adults more frequently.
Q5: How are gallstones treated today?
A: Treatment depends on the size, symptoms, and complications.
- No symptoms? We sometimes just monitor.
- Pain or complications? We usually recommend laparoscopic gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy) – a safe, minimally invasive surgery.
- In very rare cases, medicines may help dissolve tiny crystals, but surgery is the gold standard if there are repeated attacks.
Also Read: Complete Guide on Gallstones: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis
Q6: Is there a link between undetected gallstones and gallbladder cancer?
A: Yes, there is. Long-standing, untreated gallstones can cause chronic irritation and inflammation of the gallbladder wall. Over many years, this irritation can lead to changes in the gallbladder lining, increasing the risk of gallbladder cancer.
It’s important to note that not everyone with gallstones will develop cancer – but early detection and timely treatment reduce that risk dramatically.
Q7: Can gallbladder cancer spread even after removing the gallbladder?
A: Unfortunately, if cancer has already spread beyond the gallbladder before surgery, removing the gallbladder may not be enough to stop the disease. That’s why early detection is critical. If cancer is caught at an early stage, removing the gallbladder can be curative. But if the cancer is advanced, further treatments like chemotherapy or targeted therapies may be required.
Q8: Are gallstones genetic? Can they run in families?
A: Yes, there is a genetic component. If you have a family history of gallstones, you are more likely to develop them yourself. This is because bile composition and cholesterol metabolism can be influenced by genes. That’s why we advise people with a parent or sibling who had gallstones to be extra careful with their lifestyle and their diet.
09: How can one ensure they don’t develop gallstones? Are there specific precautionary measures?
A: Prevention is possible, and it starts with lifestyle choices:
Eat a balanced diet – More fruits, vegetables, whole grains; avoid too much fried or fatty food.
Stay hydrated – Adequate water keeps bile thin and prevents stone formation.
Maintain healthy weight – Obesity is a major risk factor, but avoid crash diets as rapid weight loss can also cause stones.
Regular exercise – Keeps your digestion and bile flow active.
If you have risk factors like obesity or a family history, get routine check-ups – early detection is key.
Q10: Final message to readers on gallbladder health?
A: Don’t ignore your digestive health. Occasional indigestion may seem harmless, but recurrent pain or discomfort should be checked. Gallstones can lead to serious complications like infections or pancreatitis if left untreated.
Listen to your body – and don’t delay a Gastroenterologist visit if you notice symptoms.
Gallbladder stones are no longer an “older person’s disease.” With lifestyle changes, anyone can be at risk – but the good news is that with awareness, early detection, and simple preventive steps, they are manageable.
About Dr. Reddy: Dr. Yogananda Reddy [MBBS, MRCP (UK), FRCP (UK), CCT (UK), FEBGH (European Board)], a pioneer in gastroenterology, has spent over two decades making significant contributions to healthcare both in India and the UK. As the founder of Bangalore Gastro Centre (BGC), one of India’s top-rated gastroenterology institutes, Dr. Reddy’s journey is a testament to his determination, expertise, and commitment to patient care. Read more about Dr. Yogananda Reddy here.Read more expert interviews and health articles on HealthViews India to stay informed and take control of your health
