Gallbladder Cancer: The 'Silent Killer' in India, Starting with Minor Abdominal Pain

• Gallbladder cancer is a 'silent killer' in India, often detected at advanced stages due to common, ignored early symptoms like abdominal pain and indigestion.
• Ajay Kumar, 51, from Delhi, was diagnosed with Stage-4 gallbladder cancer, given 9-12 months to live, highlighting the grim reality for many Indian families.
• The disease has a low survival rate in India, with limited treatment options like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or surgery offering little relief once advanced.
• High-risk states include Uttar Pradesh, Bihar (especially Gangetic Plains), West Bengal, Assam, Delhi, and Haryana, with factors like heavy metals in water and pesticides contributing.
• Experts emphasize not ignoring gallstones and seeking regular check-ups, as early detection is crucial for a disease with no definitive cure globally.