Which of the following statements regarding gallstone formation is true?

Gallstones can develop due to hormonal influences, making that statement true. This is particularly significant with respect to estrogen, which can affect cholesterol metabolism and bile composition. For instance, during pregnancy, increased levels of estrogen can lead to a higher risk of gallstone formation because they can alter the balance of bile salts, facilitating conditions that promote gallstone formation. Hormonal changes can also be implicated in conditions like obesity and metabolic syndrome, which further contribute to gallstone risk.

In contrast, gallstones are not solely dependent on dietary factors, as they can be the result of a combination of genetic predisposition, hormonal influences, and other medical conditions. It is also noteworthy that while gallstones are indeed more common in females, especially those of childbearing age, they are not exclusively more prevalent in men. Furthermore, while age is a risk factor, gallstones can develop in individuals of various age groups and are not confined to older adults alone.