super obesity, A term coined by the World Health Organization (WHO), refers to a body mass index (BMI) greater than 35. For the treatment of super obesity, bariatric surgery could be the only crucial alternative to address this condition.
According to the head of the Obesity Clinic of the General Hospital “Dr. Manuel Gea González”, Luz Sujey Romero Loera, This intervention not only aims to reduce weight, but also to improve the quality of life of patients.particularly those who suffer from chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and obstructive sleep apnea.
Obesity is not only an aesthetic concern, but also a health condition that involves various comorbidities.. It is essential to understand that excess weight can trigger other diseases such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, dyslipidemia and cardiovascular problems.
In fact, obstructive sleep apnea, common in people with obesity, can lead to serious complications such as high blood pressure and heart problems.
According to data from the National Health and Nutrition Survey (Ensanut) 2020 in Mexico, 72.1% of the population over 20 years of age suffers from overweight or obesity. This prevalence underscores the need to address this condition effectively. Bariatric surgery stands out as an essential resource, especially for those who have struggled unsuccessfully with conventional weight loss methods such as diet and exercise.
The Official Mexican Standard for the Comprehensive Treatment of Overweight and Obesity establishes clear criteria for the selection of candidates for bariatric surgery. Patients are required to have followed a supervised diet and exercise regimen for at least six months without achieving significant weight reduction. This underlines the importance of considering surgery as an integral part of a multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of obesity.
It is crucial to recognize that addressing obesity goes beyond surgical intervention. Patients with superobesity often face significant emotional and social challenges, including depression and anxiety. Therefore, it is essential to provide comprehensive support that includes psychological and nutritional care, in addition to surgical intervention.
World Obesity Day, established by WHO, provides a platform to raise awareness about this disease and promote healthy lifestyle habits. In 2024, under the theme “Let's talk about obesity and…”, we seek to start meaningful conversations about health, especially among young people, and foster an inclusive dialogue on how to collectively address obesity.
In summary, bariatric surgery emerges as an invaluable tool in the fight against superobesity and its comorbidities. However, its effectiveness is maximized when it is integrated into a multidisciplinary approach that addresses not only the physical, but also the emotional and social aspects of the patient.
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