‘Obesity emerging as leading factor in decline of global life expectancy’

Srinagar, Oct 26: Distinguished Professor of Surgery and nationally acclaimed Bariatric Surgeon Prof M R Attri today presented the critical role of surgery in tackling obesity at the 20th World Congress of Endoscopic Surgeons, an event held in Kolkata.

Prof Attri demonstrated techniques, shared insights, and deliberated on obesity’s widespread impact on society and the vital role of bariatric surgery in managing the global obesity crisis. He emphasised that obesity is rising sharply in both developed and developing countries, reaching alarming pandemic levels. “This condition now threatens life expectancy worldwide, affecting children and adults alike by increasing the risk of complications such as diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, cardiac disease (including heart attacks), infertility, joint issues, and psychological challenges.” He noted that the surge in obesity adversely impacts healthcare systems and economic stability, necessitating a united global response.

According to Prof Attri, over 30 percent of the American population is categorised as obese or severely obese. “The problem is also escalating in India, where 20 to 24 percent of the population is now classified as overweight or obese. This trend places a significant strain on healthcare resources, poses an economic burden, affects quality of life, and reduces overall life expectancy across populations.”

“Bariatric surgery has emerged as a transformative solution for those with severe obesity and related complications, often when traditional methods such as diet and exercise have not been successful. These surgeries, which include gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and one-anastomosis procedures, aim to reduce stomach size, control food intake, and adjust hormonal responses to support sustainable weight loss.”

Prof Attri highlighted the profound impacts of bariatric surgery, noting its potential to improve or resolve obesity-related conditions like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and sleep apnea, ultimately enhancing patients’ quality of life and life expectancy.

Success stories and clinical data supporting bariatric surgery reveal significant weight loss and a reduction in obesity-related morbidities, such as diabetes and sleep apnea. While bariatric surgery presents a viable option for combating obesity, Prof Attri stressed that it requires substantial lifestyle changes, including long-term dietary adjustments and consistent physical activity.

“Experts generally present bariatric surgery as a viable option for combating obesity, emphasising that the procedure also requires significant lifestyle adjustments, including long-term dietary changes and physical activity.”