Assessing the Hidden Link: Iron Deficiency, Anemia, and Gallstone Formation

Background: Gallstone disease (GSD) is more than just a painful inconvenience; it is a multifactorial hepato-biliary disorder with far-reaching implications. While obesity and dietary factors are well-documented risk factors, the role of iron deficiency and anemia remains shrouded in mystery. This study sheds light on the hidden correlation between these conditions and gallstone formation. Objectives: To assess the efficacy of serum hemoglobin, serum iron, and ferritin levels as risk factors for the development of gallstone disease. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed at Shri B.M. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Center, B.L.D.E. (Deemed to be University), Vijayapura. A total of 122 patients with diagnosed GSD, as evidenced by radiological findings, were enrolled. Hemoglobin, serum iron, and serum ferritin were assessed and correlated with the prevalence of GSD, age, and gender. Statistical analysis was done by using descriptive and inferential statistics, which were achieved using Pearson’s correlation and Chi-square tests. Software used in the analysis was SPSS 24.0 version, and p<0.05 was considered a level of significance. Results: The findings reveal a striking correlation between gallstone disease and reduced serum iron and hemoglobin levels. A staggering 72.1% of gallstone patients suffered from anemia, while 52.5% exhibited low serum iron levels. Aforementioned data was further solidified by the Statistical analysis, which established a positive association between gallstone formation and iron deficiency (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study unearths a critical yet often unheeded factor in GSD pathogenesis, which is iron deficiency. A game-changing system for gallstone prevention can be provided with this study by the identification and management of iron deficiency in at-risk individuals.