Prevalence of and risk factors for gallstones in Uighur and Han Chinese

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Published on: November 1, 2024

468

Li Zhu1, Aikebaier Aili1, Cheng Zhang1

  • 1Li Zhu, Aikebaier Aili, Aili Saiding, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830000, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China.

World Journal of Gastroenterology
|October 31, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Gallstone prevalence is higher in Uighur Chinese compared to Han Chinese. Risk factors like age, triglycerides, BMI, and HDL differ significantly between these ethnic groups.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Epidemiology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Gallstones (cholelithiasis) represent a significant public health concern.
  • Understanding ethnic variations in prevalence and risk factors is crucial for targeted prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prevalence of gallstones in Uighur and Han Chinese populations.
  • To identify and compare risk factors associated with gallstones in these distinct ethnic groups.

Main Methods:

  • A single-centre survey analyzed medical data from 9455 patients.
  • Prevalence was compared between Uighur and Han Chinese individuals.
  • Univariate and unconditional multiple logistic regression analyses identified risk factors.

Main Results:

  • Gallstone prevalence was significantly higher in Uighurs (22.87%) than Han Chinese (11.64%).
  • Age was a common risk factor; triglycerides, BMI, and HDL were significant for Han Chinese.
  • Total cholesterol (TC), gender, and fatty liver were key risk factors for Uighur Chinese.

Conclusions:

  • Significant differences exist in gallstone prevalence and associated risk factors between Uighur and Han Chinese populations.
  • These findings highlight the need for ethnicity-specific approaches to gallstone management and prevention.
Abstract

Keywords:
GallstonesPrevalenceRisk factors

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