### The Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Severe Obesity A recent study has shown that bariatric surgery, a type of weight loss surgery, significantly reduces the risk of premature death in people with severe obesity. This surgery not only helps in weight loss but also lowers the risk of dying from heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. #### Key Findings: - **Reduced Mortality Rates:** People who underwent bariatric surgery had a 16% lower risk of dying from any cause compared to those who did not have the surgery. - **Specific Disease Reduction:** The surgery reduced the death rate from cardiovascular disease by 29%, cancer by 43%, and diabetes by 72%. #### Types of Bariatric Surgery: - **Sleeve Gastrectomy:** Part of the stomach is removed, limiting food intake. - **Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass:** The stomach is divided into a small upper pouch and a larger lower pouch, reducing food intake and nutrient absorption. #### Additional Benefits: - **Hormonal Changes:** The surgery also affects hormones in the digestive system, which can improve conditions like diabetes and metabolic syndrome. #### Mental Health Considerations: - **Higher Suicide Risk:** There is a higher risk of suicide among those who had the surgery, especially in younger patients (18-34 years old). This highlights the need for thorough psychological screening and long-term mental health support. #### Chronic Liver Disease: - Some evidence suggests an increased risk of death from chronic liver disease post-surgery, although this finding is not consistent with other research. #### Changing Attitudes and Guidelines: - Bariatric surgery is becoming more accepted and is now recommended for people with a BMI of 30-34.9 with metabolic disease, and even for those without metabolic disease if other weight loss methods fail. Overall, bariatric surgery offers significant health benefits beyond weight loss, but it also requires careful consideration of mental health and long-term effects.