Epidemiological Profile, Risk Factors, and Survival Outcomes of Gallbladder Cancer in the Bundelkhand Region: A Hospital-Based Observational Study

Background: Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is the commonest malignancy of the biliary tract and demonstrates striking geographical clustering along the Gangetic belt of India. The Bundelkhand region lies within this high-incidence zone, yet region-specific epidemiological data remain scarce. Aims/Objectives: To describe the demographic profile, associated risk factors, clinical presentation, and short-term survival of gallbladder cancer in the Bundelkhand region. Methodology: A hospital-based observational descriptive study was carried out over one year (May 2025 to April 2026) at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Thirty histopathologically confirmed patients were enrolled. Demographic, clinical, risk-factor, staging (AJCC 8th edition), and outcome data were recorded using a predesigned proforma and analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: GBC predominantly affected patients aged 40 to 59 years (63.33%), with a marked female predominance (73.33%; female-to-male ratio 2.75:1). Most patients presented at Stage III or IV (73.33%). Adenocarcinoma was the commonest histological type (80.00%). Cholelithiasis was the leading risk factor (86.67%), followed by female reproductive factors (73.33%). Serum carcinoembryonic antigen was raised in all patients. Palliative care predominated (86.67%) and mortality during the assessment period was 33.33%. Conclusions: Gallbladder cancer in Bundelkhand is characterised by female predominance, a strong association with gallstones, and late-stage presentation with poor outcomes. Early detection and timely management of gallstone disease are essential to reduce the burden in this high-risk region.