Bariatric surgery has been found to significantly improve cardiometabolic functions such as blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, and HbA1c. People who undergo this type of surgery have a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, as well as a reduced 10-year heart disease risk. Researchers have discovered that between 30% and 50% of individuals who have bariatric surgery experience remission of diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. The study, published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society, focused on over 7,800 participants aged 20 to 79 who underwent bariatric surgery. It was found that younger, female, or white individuals without co-morbidities saw the most significant cardiometabolic improvements post-surgery.
The research team observed that older, male, and Black participants experienced a minor reduction in their 10-year heart disease risk and had lower odds of remission of diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia compared to their younger, female, or white counterparts. Individuals with a history of these conditions also showed less improvement in cardiometabolic health following bariatric surgery. Despite these findings, Dr. Mir Ali, a bariatric surgeon and medical director, emphasized the benefits of bariatric surgery for older Black males, noting that it remains the most effective way to lose weight despite potential differences in outcomes based on age, gender, and race.
The benefits of bariatric surgery were highlighted in the study, with reports of significant weight loss and improvements in heart health, including lower blood pressure, lipids, and blood sugar levels. Participants experienced an estimated 35% reduction in their 10-year cardiovascular risk one year after undergoing surgery. Additionally, between 30% and 50% of individuals who had bariatric surgery achieved remission of diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. The study found that younger, female, and white participants with no history of cardiometabolic disease saw the most substantial post-operative improvements in cardiometabolic health.
Different types of bariatric surgery were examined in the study, including sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass procedures. Both treatments alter the stomach’s anatomy to reduce food intake and digestion, leading to weight loss and improvements in obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, and sleep apnea. Dr. Mitchell Roslin, chief of bariatric surgery, highlighted the metabolic changes that occur post-surgery, such as alterations in hormones that influence obesity and heart health. He emphasized that while bariatric surgery is a critical tool for weight loss, long-term success requires changes in eating and lifestyle habits.
Bariatric surgery is a significant intervention for individuals with severe obesity, as it not only facilitates weight loss but also helps improve overall health outcomes. The surgery can slow the aging process associated with obesity-related conditions and reduce the risk of heart disease complications. While the study indicated differences in outcomes based on age, gender, and race, it underscored the importance of bariatric surgery as a tool for improving cardiometabolic health. Researchers continue to explore the metabolic changes and long-term effects of bariatric surgery to enhance understanding of its impact on obesity and heart health. It is essential for individuals considering bariatric surgery to recognize the need for lifestyle changes to support sustained weight loss and overall well-being.