Our Summary

This research paper discusses the effects of weight loss surgery (bariatric surgery) on the employment status of patients. The researchers examined the job status of over 1000 patients before and after they had this surgery.

Before surgery, about 60% of the patients were employed. After the surgery, this increased to roughly 70%. The number of jobless patients decreased from approximately 37% before the operation to 21% afterwards.

These positive changes in employment status were seen across all follow-up durations. For those who had a job before the surgery, around 90% still had their jobs at each follow-up. For those who were jobless before the surgery, about 40% had found employment at each follow-up.

The study found that there was a significant increase in the number of employed patients after weight loss surgery in all working age groups. However, the study also noted that some patients who had jobs before the surgery ended up jobless afterwards. This is the largest study of its kind worldwide.

FAQs

  1. Did the study show an increase in employment rates after weight loss surgery?
  2. How did weight loss surgery affect those who were already employed before the surgery?
  3. Was there a difference in employment status among different age groups after weight loss surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering obesity surgery that it can potentially improve their employment status. This study shows that there is a significant increase in the number of patients who are employed after having weight loss surgery. However, it is important to note that there is also a possibility of losing a job after the surgery. Patients should be aware of these potential outcomes and discuss them with their healthcare provider before making a decision. Additionally, it is important for patients to continue to prioritize their overall health and well-being post-surgery in order to maintain any improvements in employment status.

Suitable For

Typically, patients who are recommended obesity surgery are those who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. These patients have often tried other methods of weight loss such as diet and exercise without success and are at a high risk for obesity-related health complications.

In addition to BMI and obesity-related health conditions, patients who are recommended obesity surgery may also have psychological factors such as depression or low self-esteem related to their weight. They may also have tried various weight loss programs and medications without success.

Overall, patients who are recommended obesity surgery are those who are at a high risk for health complications due to their weight and have not been able to lose weight through other methods. Surgery is often recommended as a last resort when other weight loss methods have not been successful.

Timeline

In summary, before obesity surgery, patients may struggle with employment due to their weight. After surgery, there is a significant increase in employment rates, with more patients finding jobs and keeping their jobs. However, there are some cases where patients who were employed before the surgery end up jobless afterwards. Overall, weight loss surgery has a positive impact on the employment status of patients.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the different types of weight loss surgery available and which one do you recommend for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with weight loss surgery?
  3. How much weight can I expect to lose after the surgery and will I need to make any lifestyle changes?
  4. How will weight loss surgery affect my overall health and quality of life?
  5. Will I need to take any medications or supplements after the surgery?
  6. What is the long-term success rate of weight loss surgery in terms of maintaining weight loss?
  7. How soon after the surgery can I return to work and resume normal activities?
  8. Will I need to follow up with a dietitian or nutritionist after the surgery?
  9. Are there any support groups or resources available for patients who have had weight loss surgery?
  10. What are the financial costs associated with weight loss surgery and will my insurance cover it?

Reference

Authors: Courtney MJ, Mahawar K, Burnell P, Jennings N, Balupuri S, Schroeder N, Small P, Carr W. Journal: Obes Surg. 2018 Apr;28(4):963-969. doi: 10.1007/s11695-017-2963-4. PMID: 29101716