There is no known way to prevent most cases of gallbladder cancer, but there are some things you can do that may lower your risk.

Maintaining a healthy weight is one important way a person can reduce the chance of developing gallbladder cancer, as well as cancers of the colon, prostate, endometrium (uterus), kidney, and breast. The American Cancer Society recommends that people try to maintain a healthy weight throughout life by balancing what they eat with physical activity. This includes eating a healthy diet, with an emphasis on plant sources. Choose foods and beverages in amounts that help achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Eat 5 or more servings of a variety of vegetables and fruits each day, choose whole grains instead of processed (refined) grains, and limit how much processed (hot dogs, bologna, lunch meat) and red meats you eat. Physical activity is another area that people can control. The American Cancer Society recommends at least 30 minutes, preferably 45 to 60 minutes, of physical activity on 5 or more days of the week.

Since gallstones are a major risk factor, removing the gallbladders of all people with gallstones would prevent many of these cancers. But gallstones are very common, and gallbladder cancer is quite rare, even in people with gallstones. Most doctors don't recommend people with gallstones have their gallbladder removed unless they are having symptoms. This is because the possible risks and complications of surgery probably don't outweigh the possible benefit. Still, there are other reasons a doctor may recommend removing the gallbladder.

Last Medical Review: 11/02/2009
Last Revised: 11/02/2009