Obesity is not an issue that only affects adults. According to the most recent National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), the prevalence of obesity among US children and adolescents was 18.5% in 2015-2016.¹ This is only a snapshot of the epidemic. 80% of adolescents aged 10 to 14 years will remain obese into their adult years.¹ Similar to treating obesity in adults, there are many different treatment options for adolescents, including bariatric surgery.

Adolescents only become eligible for weight loss surgery once they have reached physical maturity (age 14 for girls and age 15 for boys).² There is substantial controversy over whether patients under the age of 18 should be allowed to have adolescent bariatric surgery; however, surgery is only an option when other options have failed and the risks of obesity outweigh the risks of surgery. According to the ASMBS, adolescent obesity can lead to type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, pseudotumor cerebri, cardiovascular disease, decreased quality of life, depression, and eating disorders.³

These co-morbid diseases present a serious concern for the health and wellbeing of teenagers. Lifestyle changes and non-surgical methods of weight loss can aid most teenagers with obesity, but for those with severe obesity who have unsuccessfully tried to lose weight, adolescent bariatric surgery can rapidly improve and reduce those life-threatening comorbidities. Even with rapid results, the long-term success of surgery depends on the patient's dedication to life-long health habits to maintain results. They must be willing and capable to follow the strict pre- and post-operative diet, take bariatric multivitamins, calcium, and other supplements for life, and consider the risk and benefits of surgery to make an informed decision.²

Family support is also very important for success. An adolescent is never alone in the process. Their family and healthcare providers are a crucial component in the decision to pursue weight loss surgery. The first step in seeking help for an teen who may need adolescent bariatric surgery is to speak with a healthcare provider. A primary care physician will evaluate their health status and available treatment options before considering weight loss surgery

References:

1. Sanyaolu, A., Okorie, C., Qi, X., Locke, J., & Rehman, S. (2019). Childhood and Adolescent Obesity in the United States: A Public Health Concern. Global pediatric health, 6, 2333794X19891305. https://doi.org/10.1177/2333794X19891305
2. Weight loss surgery for adolescents with severe obesity. (n.d.). Retrieved November 30, 2020, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17859-weight-loss-surgery-for-adolescents-with-severe-obesity
3. Childhood and Adolescent Obesity: Patient Learning Center. (n.d.). Retrieved November 30, 2020, from https://asmbs.org/patients/adolescent-obesity