Gallstones are more common in which sex?

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Hormonal factors drive the higher risk of gallstones in women. Estrogen increases cholesterol secretion into bile and can slow gallbladder emptying, promoting cholesterol stone formation. This effect is strongest during reproductive years, pregnancy, and with estrogen-containing therapies, making gallstones more common in women overall. While obesity and rapid weight changes also contribute, the female sex remains a key factor, so gallstones are more common in women.