Obesity seen in adolescents is as widespread and important as obesity seen in adults. One-third of children and adolescents are either obese or overweight. These children and adolescents are more likely to be obese in their adult life, as well. Obese children and adolescents, just like obese adults, are exposed to the harmful effects of obesity. In this writing, we will discuss the subject of Bariatric Surgery During Adolescence.
Bariatric Surgery During Adolescence:
Systemic diseases and acute conditions caused by obesity or overweight
Different systemic disorders can occur in overweight and obesity conditions that develop during adolescence or develop during childhood and continue in also adolescence. These disorders include;
- High cholesterol: High triglyceride value, total cholesterol and high LDL
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Type 2 diabetes
- Bone and joint pain
- Sleep apnea
- Increased risk of getting cancer at advanced ages
- Social exclusion or introversion, social and psychological problems
- Lack of self-confidence, motivation deficiency
- Underperformance in school
What are the differences of obesity and overweight during adolescence, and obesity and overweight during adulthood?
As in adults, bariatric surgery is an effective treatment for obese adolescents as well. However, the weights required for adolescent surgery are different from the weights required for adult surgery.
- Those who have a BMI (body mass index) over 50;
- Those who have a BMI over 40 and obesity-related comorbidities (such as hypertension, high cholesterol and depression); and
- Those who have a BMI over 35 as well as severe disorders such as sleep apnea, Type 2 diabetes, fatty liver or increased intracranial pressure can have bariatric surgery.
For having bariatric surgery, adolescents need to be mature both mentally and physically. Family support is also very important for adolescents who will have surgery. Adolescents supported by their families get more benefit from bariatric surgery. Parental approval is required for operations to be performed during adolescence.