DR. ZHAO Changyong, Head of the 19th China Medical Team for Guyana and a distinguished expert in General Surgery at the Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, provided insights in an exclusive interview regarding the escalating global obesity crisis and effective methods for weight loss, particularly through minimally invasive bariatric surgery.
Dr. Zhao highlighted that obesity, characterised by excessive nutrient intake and sedentary lifestyles, has become a pressing health concern worldwide.
He emphasised the significance of Body Mass Index (BMI) as a key indicator, with overweight defined as BMI≥24 and obesity as BMI≥28.
“Obesity is not merely a cosmetic issue; it’s a chronic metabolic disease,” Dr. Zhao emphasised.
Discussing weight loss methods, Dr. Zhao outlined three approaches. The first involves lifestyle modifications, such as dietary control and regular exercise, albeit with a success rate of only one per cent. The second method utilises medication, with drugs like Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) aiding weight loss, though it’s not universally effective and may have side effects.
Finally, Dr. Zhao advocated for bariatric surgery as the most effective and long-lasting solution, especially for severe obesity or obesity with metabolic diseases.
Bariatric surgical procedures encompass gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, gastric band, and duodenal switch. These procedures have demonstrated successful outcomes in the treatment of class III obesity. Additionally, they aid in regulating your metabolism, encompassing blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol.
“Minimally invasive bariatric surgery offers hope for patients struggling with obesity and associated health issues,” Dr. Zhao remarked. “It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about improving overall health and saving lives.”
He emphasised that candidates for bariatric surgery typically include those with a BMI>32.5 or those with a BMI>27.5 with metabolic syndrome.
The procedure, performed laparoscopically, involves minimal trauma and offers significant weight loss benefits. Moreover, the surgery has been recognised globally for its effectiveness, with patients typically losing 30 per cent to 45 per cent of their weight post-surgery.
Addressing common concerns, Dr. Zhao clarified that with proper post-surgery guidance and lifestyle adjustments, the risk of weight rebound is minimal. He also highlighted the importance of understanding bariatric surgery as a new beginning, requiring ongoing commitment to maintain results and lead a healthy life.
As the global obesity epidemic continues to rise, Dr. Zhao’s advocacy for minimally invasive bariatric surgery offers a beacon of hope for individuals struggling with obesity and its associated health complications.
