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Published in: International Journal of Public Health 3/2017

01-04-2017 | Original Article

Gallstone disease and mortality: a cohort study

Authors: Daniel Mønsted Shabanzadeh, Lars Tue Sørensen, Torben Jørgensen

Published in: International Journal of Public Health | Issue 3/2017

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Abstract

Objectives

The objective of this cohort study was to determine whether subjects with gallstone disease identified by screening of a general population had increased overall mortality when compared to gallstone-free participants and to explore causes of death.

Methods

The study population (N = 5928) was examined 1982–1992 and included an abdominal ultrasound examination to assess gallstone status, a physical examination, blood samples, and a questionnaire about medical history. Participants were followed up through national registers until 2015. Multiple adjusted Cox regression models were built.

Results

Gallstone disease was present in 10%. Mortality was 46% during median 24.7 years of follow-up with 1% lost. Overall mortality and death from cardiovascular diseases were significantly associated to gallstone disease. Death from unknown causes was significantly associated to gallstone disease and death from cancer and gastrointestinal disease was not associated. No differences in mortality for ultrasound-proven gallstones or cholecystectomy were identified.

Conclusions

Gallstone disease is associated with increased overall mortality and to death from cardiovascular disease. Gallstones may be considered a possible cardiometabolic risk factor. Other unknown factors also seem to play a role.
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Metadata
Title
Gallstone disease and mortality: a cohort study
Authors
Daniel Mønsted Shabanzadeh
Lars Tue Sørensen
Torben Jørgensen
Publication date
01-04-2017
Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Published in
International Journal of Public Health / Issue 3/2017
Print ISSN: 1661-8556
Electronic ISSN: 1661-8564
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00038-016-0916-7

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