Understanding Bariatric Surgery | EziSurg Medical

According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2022, 43% of adults aged 18 and over worldwide were overweight (43% of men and 44% of women), and the obesity rate was 16%, a significant increase compared to 1990. Additionally, there are 37 million overweight children under the age of 5 globally, and the overweight rate among children and adolescents aged 5-19 rose from 8% in 1990 to 20% in 2022, with the obesity rate increasing from 2% to 8%. These figures indicate that obesity has become a common challenge for countries at all income levels worldwide.

For individuals who are extremely overweight, bariatric surgery can alleviate health risks associated with weight-related diseases. Bariatric surgery aims to alter the structure of the stomach and the method of food digestion and absorption through surgical means, helping patients reduce weight. In 2023, it is estimated that over 35,000 bariatric and metabolic surgeries were performed in China. Experts note that not everyone is suitable for bariatric surgery; it is considered only when exercise, diet, and medication interventions are ineffective. Additionally, while bariatric surgery addresses health threats caused by obesity, maintaining good dietary and exercise habits is essential for long-term success.

Development of Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery Worldwide

Bariatric and metabolic surgery have developed rapidly globally and have become crucial methods for treating obesity and related metabolic diseases. Early intestinal bypass and gastric bypass surgeries were widely adopted due to their effectiveness, but they had numerous complications. With the advancement of laparoscopic technology, bariatric surgeries have become less invasive, recovery is faster, and the safety and acceptance among patients have significantly improved. Newer procedures like sleeve gastrectomy have become popular due to their significant effects and fewer complications.

Currently, hundreds of thousands of bariatric surgeries are performed worldwide each year, with the United States, Brazil, and European countries accounting for a large proportion. These surgeries not only significantly reduce weight but also improve or even cure various metabolic diseases. With advances in technology and postoperative care, the safety of the surgeries has greatly improved, and the incidence of postoperative complications has significantly decreased.

High-income countries have higher surgery rates, and the demand for surgeries is also gradually increasing in middle and low-income countries. In the future, with the development of new surgical technologies, personalized treatment plans, and the application of comprehensive treatment models, bariatric and metabolic surgery will continue to develop globally, providing more effective means for treating obesity and related diseases.

Candidates for Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery

Bariatric and metabolic surgeries have strict indications. According to current guidelines, individuals with a BMI ≥ 27.5, who cannot control their weight through lifestyle changes and medical treatment, and have at least two components of metabolic syndrome or complications, may consider surgery after a comprehensive evaluation. From the perspective of patient benefits, bariatric and metabolic surgeries not only reduce weight or BMI but also alleviate conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, and polycystic ovary syndrome. It is currently recognized as the only long-term effective bariatric treatment.