Is Weight Loss Surgery a Viable Option for Teens?
Adults are not the only ones who struggle with weight. Obesity is estimated to impact about a third of the American population, including children and teenagers. For those who are young, obesity can set them up for a lifetime of health-related concerns in addition to the social stigmas they might face. Considering the potentially grave ramifications obesity may have for teens, researchers have been exploring the benefits bariatric surgery may hold for them. Multiple studies have shown that bariatric surgery can help teens who are severely obese shed weight and keep it off. One long-term study was conducted that followed nearly 60 teens who underwent gastric bypass procedures. After eight years, the teens had lost on average about 30 percent of their initial weight. The teens in the study group also showed significant drops in such concerns as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. While the benefits were clearly noted, researchers also uncovered points that show ba