Bariatric surgery has historically been perceived as an extreme measure, often reserved as a last resort for individuals struggling with excess weight. However, emerging data suggests that we should consider it as an option much earlier and for a broader range of patients.
In fact, it's astonishing to note that fewer than 1 percent of eligible patients ever consult a bariatric professional, be it a surgeon or a bariatrician. This statistic is particularly eye-opening. Even within our own hospital, we have thousands of patients who meet the criteria for evaluation, yet we're not seeing anywhere near that number in our clinic.
Clearly, there's a significant disparity here. In reality, anyone interested in managing their weight, especially those with a BMI over 30, should be open to discussions about bariatric surgery or alternative interventions. These alternatives may include medical management through medications, adopting a regimen of physical activity, embracing exercise routines, and addressing mental health concerns.
Maria Iliakova is a bariatric and general surgeon.
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