From the Research
The prevalence of gallbladder disease in Saudi Arabia is approximately 11.7%, with higher rates observed in women and those with a family history of gallstone disease, as reported in a study from 2007 1. The prevalence of gallbladder disease in Saudi Arabia is a significant health concern, with various studies reporting different rates. However, the most relevant study for this question is the one from 2007, which reported a prevalence of 11.7% in a high-altitude Saudi population 1.
- Risk factors specific to the Saudi population include high-calorie diets rich in fats, increasing obesity rates, and genetic predisposition.
- The prevalence has been increasing over the past few decades, likely due to adoption of Western dietary habits and more sedentary lifestyles.
- Certain regions show higher prevalence, with some studies reporting variations between different provinces of Saudi Arabia, such as the Eastern region and Riyadh having higher rates 2.
- Cholecystectomy (surgical removal of the gallbladder) remains the standard treatment for symptomatic gallstone disease in Saudi Arabia, with laparoscopic approaches being the preferred surgical method in most healthcare facilities across the kingdom.
- Early detection through routine ultrasound screening for high-risk individuals can help manage complications before they become severe. It's worth noting that more recent studies, such as the one from 2023 3, focus on the management of symptomatic gallstone disease using ursodeoxycholic acid, but do not provide information on the prevalence of gallbladder disease in Saudi Arabia. Another study from 2025 4 investigates the efficacy of ursodeoxycholic acid in reducing the necessity of cholecystectomy, but also does not report on the prevalence of gallbladder disease. Therefore, the study from 2007 1 remains the most relevant for answering this question.