Gallstones: genetics versus environment.

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine if a significant genetic component contributes to the pathogenesis of symptomatic gallstones.

Summary Background Data: Gallstones represent a polygenic disorder that affects more than 30,000,000 Americans and results in more than 750,000 cholecystectomies in the United States annually. Risk factors include age, gender, race, parity, obesity, and diabetes.