Risk Factors Of Symptomatic Gallstones In A Rural Population Of Kamar Tal Tehsil Khall, Dir Lower,

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the prevalence and risk factors associated with symptomatic gallstones in a rural population of 71 patients from Kamar Tal Tehsil Khall, Dir Lower. A cross-sectional design was employed, and data were collected over six months through a structured questionnaire, focusing on demographic information, clinical history, and risk factors such as age, sex, marital status, obesity, diabetes, family history, hyperlipidemia, and multiparity in women. Blood samples were analyzed to assess lipid profiles, including total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides. The results showed that the majority of patients were female (87%), with 70% being over the age of 40. Risk factors such as female sex, obesity (41%), hyperlipidemia (23%), family history of gallstones (52%), and multiparity (83%) were prevalent in this cohort. The study found that 22% of patients had total cholesterol levels > 200 mg/dL, and 48% had low HDL cholesterol levels, both contributing to the formation of gallstones. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and associations were assessed through chi-square and t-tests. The findings suggest that multiple factors, including gender, age, lifestyle, and lipid abnormalities, contribute to the high prevalence of gallstones in this rural population, highlighting the need for targeted health interventions and lifestyle modifications.