The Changing Pattern of Cholelithiasis in Lagos

Abstract

Colo-rectal carcinoma, diverticular disease and cholecystitis which are prevalent in the industrialised world are very rare in the African population. The last two decades have, however witnessed a big socio-economic change with incorporation of western dietary items, especially in the Nigerian urban areas. Collection of 69 cases of cholecystitis over a five year period contrasts sharply with the earlier reports in Nigeria. The female to male ratio is 5.3 to 1. The age range is 10-66 years, median female 36.9 ± 11.3 S.D., and male 49 ±7.1 S.D. Probable factors contributing to the increased occurence may include increased admittance to hospitals, incorporation of the western dietary items in the diet of the urbanised Nigerians and oral contraceptive pills.

Key Words:

• Cholelithiasis
• diet
• contraceptive pills