Weight-Loss Surgery Can Be Effective Despite Depression Professional Medicine

Weight-Loss Surgery Can Be Effective Despite Depression

July 7, 2011, 2:43 pm

WEDNESDAY, June 15 (HealthDay News) — Being depressed doesn’t reduce the effectiveness of weight loss surgery, a new study finds.

University of Michigan researchers analyzed data from more than 25,469 patients who had weight loss surgery and found that patients who were depressed or depression-free before the surgery all lost nearly 60 percent of their excess weight within one year. They also reported an average 30 percent improvement in quality of life, including greater mobility, social interactions, family life and independent living.

Patients with depression did have a higher rate of minor complications (4 percent versus 3.3 percent), but there were no significant differences in major complications between the two groups. (The average rate of major complications from weight loss surgery is 4 percent.)

“Depression and anxiety are relatively common among those with chronic diseases like obesity and type 2 diabetes, and these conditions can sometimes interfere with treatment,” lead author Dr. Jonathan F. Finks, an assistant professor of surgery at the University of Michigan, said in an ASMBS news release.

“This study suggests bariatric patients suffering from depression can experience health outcomes and quality of life improvements comparable to non-depressed patients. However, doctors and patients still need to consider psychological issues, state of mind and commitment to lifestyle changes after surgery in assessing whether bariatric surgery is appropriate and indicated for any particular patient,” he added.

Because this study was presented at a medical meeting, the findings should be viewed as preliminary until they are published in a peer-reviewed journal.

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