FAQs on Obesity And Metabolic Surgery

Q- Common Health Consequences of Obesity.

Ans- Obesity is the mother of all diseases and accumulation of fat impairs functioning of almost every single organ system in human body. It is a significant risk factor in the development of high blood pressure, diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease (COLD), and even certain types of cancers. Obesity also causes osteoarthritis of the hips, knees & lumbar spine, infertility, sleep apnea, gall bladder stones, urinary incontinence, impotency, loss of libido, varicose veins and acid reflux. Depending on the severity of obesity, a person’s lifespan may be reduced by a period ranging from a few years to many decades.

Psychological and Social Consequence of Obesity

Not only does Obesity have an adverse effect on a person’s appearance, it also reduces their self-confidence and leads to social stigma and isolation. In addition, Obesity decreases a person’s employability and his ability to work hard. Obese people have higher rates of absenteeism from work and that means decreased productivity and increased costs for employers.

Q- How to prevent or treat obesity?

Ans- Since weight can gradually creep up on us, it is important to keep a close eye on weight and B.M.I. Medical practitioners must use every healthcare contact with people to identify overweight or obese people. A late diagnosis will usually mean that patients will inevitably develop obesity related diseases with serious implications. In early stages, people can often remedy the situation by reducing their calorie intake and spending more calories. In late stages and for those with uncontrolled diabetes, bariatric and metabolic surgery may be the only option.

Q- Who is suitable for this surgery?

Ans- Suitability for this surgery is determined by a number of factors, which mainly include patient’s BMI and other health conditions like diabetes. Patients must have tried other methods of weight loss and failed to maintain weight loss with them. They must also commit to lifelong dietary and lifestyle changes and regular follow up is required after surgery. Local guidelines state that bariatric / metabolic surgery should be considered for following patient groups.

1.       BMI = 35

2.       BMI = 30 with inadequately controlled diabetes or metabolic syndrome

It may also be considered for selected patients with BMI = 27.5 with inadequately controlled diabetes or metabolic syndrome.