Edited

It has been stated on this forum that 8% (and then 10%) of the population has Gallstones as indicated by the figures given by Mayo Clinic.

I previously pointed out that SILENT Gallstones are asymptomatic and therefore would not be included in an accurate representation of the numbers/percentages of people having GALLSTONES. This prompted the following response:

"The 10% figure for prevelance of Gallstones is readily available on many many sites. This data is gathered from many many ultrasounds being conducted...not just in searching for gallstones. Ultrasounds of the liver would be just one instance in which gallstones would be detected (if present) or not detected if not present. Silent gallstones are jsut as easily detected as ones causing an attack."

Here is the definition of SILENT GALLSTONES:

"Silent gallstones - unknown gallstones without symptoms"
(See link below for source)

Now I ask you...if someone has no symptoms of gallbladder disease...feels fine, in fact...why would they be having an ultrasound of their gallbladder performed?! Or any ultrasound?!! Why would they even go to a doctor?!!!

In fact, the MAJORITY of GALLSTONES are SILENT GALLSTONES:

"The majority of people with gallstones have no signs or symptoms and are unaware of their gallstones. (The gallstones are "silent.") Their gallstones often are found as a result of tests (e.g., ultrasound or X-ray examination of the abdomen) performed while evaluating medical conditions other than gallstones. Symptoms can appear later in life, however, after many years without symptoms. Thus, over a period of five years, approximately ten percent of people with silent gallstones will develop symptoms. Once symptoms develop, they are likely to continue and often will worsen."
(See second link below for source)

Now granted, some SILENT GALLSTONES may be detected by chance during an ultrasound that is looking for pathology other than GALLSTONES. But given that most people who HAVE GALLSTONES are experiencing NO SYMPTOMS...it is reasonable to conclude that many people are walking around with SILENT GALLSTONES that are undetected because they feel find and have no reason to see a doctor or get an ultraound! No rocket Science here, right?!

So how can an accurate percentage of GALLSTONES within the general population be calculated given the high prevalence of SILENT GALLSTONES?!!!

It can't.

http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/g/gallstones/subtypes.htm
http://www.medicinenet.com/gallstones/page2.htm