79% Americans think surgery for weight loss should be last resort: Study

New York, Jan 8: About 79 per cent of Americans believe weight loss surgery should only be pursued as a last resort, according to a study. The study, based on a national survey by Orlando Health, found 60 per cent agree that bariatric surgery is a shortcut to shedding pounds. More than two in five US adults suffer from obesity, an epidemic that continues to trend upward. While bariatric surgery is an extremely effective treatment option, the study reveals common stigmas that may deter those who qualify for surgery from pursuing the treatment they need. “Treatment plans for obesity are tailored to each individual patient based on things like body mass index and existing medical conditions and may include medication, lifestyle changes, counselling and bariatric surgery,” said Andre Teixeira, medical director and bariatric surgeon at Orlando Health Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery Institute.