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Increased cholecystectomy rates in Saudi Arabia
T M Tamimi1, L Wosornu, A al-Khozaim
1Department of Surgery, King Fahd Hospital of King Faisal University, Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia.
Lancet (London, England)
|November 17, 1990
Summary
Gallstone disease and cholecystectomy rates surged in Saudi Arabia. Dietary shifts, particularly increased fat and sugar intake, appear linked to this rise, not population changes.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Gallstones are a growing health concern in Saudi Arabia.
- Cholecystectomy is a frequent surgical procedure in the region.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the trends in cholecystectomy frequency.
- To explore potential correlations between cholecystectomy rates and demographic/dietary factors.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 2854 cholecystectomy cases from 14 hospitals in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province (1977-1986).
- Comparison of cholecystectomy rates with population changes and other surgical operations.
- Assessment of dietary consumption patterns, including calories, fat, sugar, and fiber.
Main Results:
- Cholecystectomy frequency increased by 978% over the study period.
- This rise was disproportionate to population growth (67%) and other surgeries (87%).
- Significant increases in daily calorie (81%), fat (197%), and sugar (164%) consumption coincided with a 75% decrease in high-fiber grain intake.
Conclusions:
- The dramatic increase in cholecystectomy rates is unlikely due to demographic shifts.
- Changes in dietary habits, characterized by higher fat and sugar intake and lower fiber, are strongly associated with the rising gallstone disease incidence.