Associations of long-term exposure to particulate matter with gallstone risks in Chinese adults: A large cross-sectional study

In a study involving 72,893 participants, increased ambient particulate matter exposure was positively associated with a higher risk of gallstone disease.

• For every 10 μg/m³ increment in particulate matter, the odds ratios for gallstone disease were 1.17, 1.10, and 1.07 for PM, PM2.5, and PM10, respectively.
• The association between particulate matter exposure and gallstone disease risk was stronger in males, individuals who consume alcohol, and those with central obesity.
• Dyslipidemia significantly mediated the relationship between particulate matter exposure and gallstone disease risk, with mediation proportions of 5.37%, 9.13%, and 7.66% for PM, PM2.5, and PM10.
• Findings suggest that exposure to particulate matter may relate to increased gallstone disease risk in Chinese adults.

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