Work

Association between gallstones and arthritis in U.S. adults: A cross-sectional NHANES study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Objective: This study aimed to investigate the association between gallstones and arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, in U.S. adults. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data from 2017 to 2020 and 2021-2023, including 10,108 participants. Weighted multivariable logistic regression models were employed to analyze the association, adjusting for demographic, lifestyle, and metabolic confounders. Subgroup and interaction analyses were performed to assess effect modification of categorical covariates. Results: Gallstones were significantly associated with arthritis (OR: 1.49, 95 % CI: 1.15, 1.92) and osteoarthritis (OR: 1.55, 95 % CI: 1.15, 2.08) after full adjustment, but not with rheumatoid arthritis. Subgroup and interaction analyses revealed a significant effect modification by sex (P for interaction = 0.02), with females showing a significantly stronger association between gallstones and osteoarthritis (OR: 1.81, 95 % CI: 1.33, 2.47). Conclusions: Gallstones were significantly associated with osteoarthritis, particularly among females. Further studies are needed to clarify the causal association.

Source: Preventive Medicine Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2025.103335

Authors: Junyu Huang, Zan Liu

Institution: The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University

Language: English

Topic: Gallbladder and Bile Duct Disorders

Subfield: Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,610