Childhood Obesity: Bariatric Surgery Is A Boon For Obese Patients
The obesity epidemic in India is growing at an alarming rate, and it is estimated that by 2030 millions of the adult population will be obese. It is estimated that childhood obesity has more than doubled in the past 30 years, while the number of obese adolescents has increased by fourfold. In 2015, it was estimated that over 30% of children (ages 2-19) were considered obese.
There are many factors that contribute to childhood obesity, but the most common are poor diet and lack of physical activity. Other contributing factors include genetics, family history, cultural influences, and medical conditions.
The long-term effects of childhood obesity are severe and can lead to a variety of health problems, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, and certain types of cancer. Childhood obesity can also lead to emotional and social problems, such as low self-esteem and bullying.
Bariatric Surgery Is A Boon For Obese Patients
Bariatric surgery has been shown to be an effective and safe weight loss method for people who are obese. Bariatric surgery is of different types and is usually recommended to patients who are unable to lose weight through diet and exercise. It has been shown to help people lose a significant amount of weight and keep it off. In addition, bariatric surgery can help people improve their health and quality of life.
This surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. Bariatric surgeries Gastric banding, Gastric bypass, Gastric Sleeve, Gastric balloon, etc., are common weight loss surgeries performed. These procedures involve reducing the size of the stomach, which in turn reduces the amount of food that is consumed by the patient and eventually lowers the absorption of calories. This process leads to loose your extra weight.
The surgery is commonly performed for patients whose body mass index (BMI) is 35 – 40 or more than 40. It is also highly recommended for patients who are suffering from diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and sleep apnea. Remission of these conditions has been observed in many people following bariatric surgery.
What is the earliest age at which obesity can develop?
It is not uncommon for some newborns to be born overweight. At the same time, some children might become obese during infancy due to the amount of formula food they are fed and the introduction of a high-calorie diet very early in their life.
Children are also likely to gain weight at several points in his or her life. The peak time is during preschool, 2 to 5 years. Then 7 to 8 years of age. Lastly, at the beginning of middle school, around the age of 10 or 11.
It is believed that overeating (especially junk food) is a significant contributor to childhood obesity — yet other factors may also contribute, some kids need to take steroids for specific diseases, and their weight gain is often attributed to this.
What is the right age for children to undergo bariatric surgery?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as the right age for children to undergo bariatric surgery will vary depending on the individual child’s health and weight. Generally speaking; however, most experts agree that children should be at least 12 years old and should have failed to lose weight through traditional weight loss methods, such as diet and exercise, before considering surgery. Additionally, children should be able to understand and comply with the post-operative lifestyle changes that are necessary for success after surgery.
Conclusion
Overweight and obesity are increasing in children and adolescents. The CDC reports revealed that 1 out of 5 children between the age of 2 to 19 is overweight. Today, around 2 to 3 million teenagers in India suffer from severe obesity. And experts say that they are all good candidates for weight loss surgery.
Having surgery is the first step of your weight loss journey. There are many things that have to be done along with surgery to prevent and treat childhood obesity, which includes eating a healthy diet, being physically active, and making lifestyle changes. If your child is obese, it is important to talk to a doctor about a weight management plan.
For more detailed information, consult Dr. V Pareek, one of the best doctors for treating childhood obesity in Hyderabad. He has more than 15 years of experience as a Laparoscopic and Bariatric Surgeon. Call +91 91-777-77715 to book your appointment slot with the doctor.
