Obesity and Your Child

Obesity and Your Child
For some children and adolescents suffering from obesity the solution is beyond the reach of diets and exercise.
It is important to pay close attention to your child as often children and adolescents do not share their feelings for fear of disappointing their parents.

Bariatric Surgery in Adolescents
Current data shows that bariatric surgery in adolescents is as safe and effective as it is in adults. The most common procedures are the gastric band and sleeve.
The decision on the type of procedure is taken in conjunction with the adolescent, his family and the bariatric team (psychologist, bariatric surgeon, bariatric nutrition specialist, etc.).

Changes
• Weight .- You can expect this weight-loss to place you in a healthy range.
• Type 2 Diabetes .- Diabetic children are at increased risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol and liver disease.
Reduced or eliminated.
• Sleep Apnea.- 22% of adolescents with obesity present it. It is when breathing has abnormal pauses while sleeping. It causes fatigue, mood swings and difficulty concentrating and completing tasks.
Reduced or eliminated.
• Fatty Liver Disease .- 38% of adolescents with obesity present it.
Reduced or eliminated.
• Cardiovascular Disease .- Studies suggest that childhood obesity can cause adult heart disease.
Prevented.
• Depression .- Teens who undergo surgery to lose weight improve their emotional well-being and self-esteem. This is of paramount importance in adolescence.
Eliminated.

Risks
All surgical procedures have associated risks of complications and in the case of adolescents the risk is equal to that of adults.
Having a bariatric procedure at an early age decreases the risk of long-term complications from obesity.

Changes in Lifestyle
It is important to strictly adhere to scheduled follow-up visits because the adolescent is growing.

Who is a Candidate?
Teens with diseases related to obesity and a BMI above 30.