Update | 21 April 2021 Author : André Lázaro Obesity is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide. According to figures from the World Health Organization, it is estimated that around 13% of the world population suffers from obesity. The sedentary lifestyle associated with the worsening of dietary problems in the population related to the pandemic of COVID-19, confinement and working from home make an important increase in obesity problems foreseeable in the coming years . Diseases usually associated with obesity, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, dyslipidemia or sleep apnea are the metabolic syndrome, whose effects on quality of life, cardiovascular risk and premature death are devastating for patients and their families. Obesity is classified into degrees of severity, based on the body mass index (BMI), which relates weight to height: BMI (kg/m 2 ) = weight (kg) / height 2 (m) A BMI greater than 40 kg/m 2 indicates morbid obesity . Obesity treatment The first and most permanent measures to be implemented in a weight loss program are: A balanced low calorie diet adapted to each individual; A correct meal pattern; Regular practice of physical exercise. These measures require profound changes in lifestyle and individual choices - in general, they are much easier to indicate than to follow - which makes this process often difficult and with a low success rate. Therefore, it is advisable to be accompanied by professionals in the field of nutrition and psychology . In some situations, and with a complementary role to the measures mentioned above, drugs are prescribed in the treatment of obesity. The isolated use of medications in these situations is not considered an adequate option to lose weight and to be able to maintain it. In cases of morbid obesity or in situations where life-threatening complications are present, surgical treatment for obesity or bariatric surgery is indicated. Obesity surgery It is currently known that for patients with a BMI greater than 40 kg/m 2 , or morbid obesity, the best treatment option is obesity surgery. Surgery is also indicated in patients with a BMI greater than 35 kg/m 2 with associated diseases related to the metabolic syndrome. Candidates for obesity surgery should always make a preoperative assessment and follow-up with a multidisciplinary team, who initiates the lifestyle change process before the surgical intervention and maintains the post-operative follow-up. The surgical options are several, with the most frequently performed surgeries being: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass ; Gastric sleeve or vertical gastrectomy . These procedures are performed by minimally invasive surgery or videosurgery - laparoscopic or robotic - and imply a short hospital stay, on average 2 to 3 days. This minimally invasive approach allows for quick recovery and early return to work. In cases where it is indicated, obesity surgery is the best option for treating morbid obesity and associated diseases, allowing patients to improve their health and quality of life. However, it implies periodic medical follow-up and the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle . Meet the general surgery team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
