What is Gallbladder Cancer?
Gallbladder cancer is a rare but aggressive type of cancer that begins in the gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver that stores bile. Often diagnosed late due to vague symptoms, gallbladder cancer can spread quickly to nearby organs. In Ghaziabad, timely medical consultation and advanced diagnostic imaging are crucial for early detection and effective treatment.
Symptoms
Early stages may not cause noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, signs may include:
- Abdominal pain, especially in the upper right side
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss
- Fever
- Swelling or lump in the abdomen
- Persistent indigestion or bloating
Risk Factors
Certain factors increase the chances of gallbladder cancer:
- Gallstones: The most common risk factor, linked to chronic inflammation
- Age & Gender: More common in women and people over 60
- Obesity: Associated with gallstone formation and cancer risk
- Family History: Genetic predisposition in some cases
- Chronic Gallbladder Infections: Repeated infections can damage the gallbladder lining
- Polyps in Gallbladder: Growths inside the gallbladder may become cancerous
Treatment Overview
Gallbladder cancer treatment in Ghaziabad depends on the stage at diagnosis:
- Surgery: Cholecystectomy (removal of gallbladder) or extended surgery for advanced stages
- Chemotherapy: Used before or after surgery to control cancer spread
- Radiation Therapy: Helps shrink tumors or manage symptoms
- Targeted Therapy & Immunotherapy: Newer approaches for advanced cases