What is gallbladder cancer?
Gallbladder cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ under your liver (on the right side of your tummy). It stores bile, which helps your body digest food.
Cancer happens when abnormal cells start to grow and divide in an uncontrolled way. Gallbladder cancer can begin in the lining of the gallbladder and if it grows, it can spread into nearby areas such as the liver or the bile ducts.
Gallbladder cancer is uncommon and is sometimes found when someone is being tested or treated for another gallbladder problem, such as gallstones.
Gallbladder cancer usually develops because of a mix of things over time. Having a risk factor does not mean someone will get cancer.
Things that can increase risk include:
- Older age
- Being female
- Family history (a close relative with gallbladder cancer)
- Gallstones or long-term inflammation of the gallbladder
- Gallbladder polyps (small growths)
- Some bile duct conditions
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Overweight and obesity
Having one or more risk factors does not mean someone will develop cancer.
Lowering your risk over time
You can’t always prevent gallbladder cancer, but healthy changes may lower risk: aiming for a healthy weight, stopping smoking, and keeping alcohol within safer limits.
You don’t need to panic, just notice what’s normal for you. Here are some things to look out for:
- Yellow skin or yellow eyes (jaundice)
- Itchy skin, dark wee, or paler poo than usual
- Pain or discomfort at the top right of your tummy, or pain in your right shoulder
- A swollen tummy that is not linked to eating
- Feeling full very quickly, indigestion or a change in appetite
- Feeling or being sick
- Feeling very tired, weak or generally unwell
- Losing weight without trying
-
A lump on the right side of your tummy (under your ribs)
When to get advice
If you notice any of these symptoms contact your GP practice. For more information on symptoms and when to get help, see NHS guidance:
Tests and next steps for gallbladder cancer - NHS
For more information you can visit any of the links below.
Last reviewed: January 2026