University of Louisville
Surgically Less Fat: A Case Against Bariatric (Weight-Loss) Surgery
Grade Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
Major
Psychology and Philosophy/pre-med
Institution 23-24
University of Louisville
KY House District #
36
KY Senate District #
36
Faculty Advisor/ Mentor
Dr. Lauren Freeman
Department
Philosophy Dept.
Abstract
Surgically Less Fat: A Case Against Bariatric (Weight-Loss) Surgery, Aamya Vohra, Dr. Lauren Freeman, Philosophy Department
This paper critically examines the role of bariatric surgery as a primary solution for obesity, delving into its historical roots, procedural variations, patient demographics, and associated benefits and risks. The paper argues against positioning bariatric surgery as the first option for obese patients, emphasizing the unexamined harms it may produce. The discussion encompasses the societal and economic challenges in accessing the surgery, considering factors such as insurance coverage, BMI qualifications, and additional health conditions. The benefits of bariatric surgery, particularly significant weight loss, are contrasted with the long-term risks and complications, including the psychological toll on patients who experience weight regain. Lifestyle modifications post-surgery are scrutinized, revealing the potential inaccessibility and difficulty in maintaining the recommended dietary changes, especially for low-income households. The multifaceted risks associated with the surgery, ranging from dumping syndrome to cardiovascular complications, are thoroughly explored. The paper underscores the underreported issue of malnutrition post-bariatric surgery and its potentially fatal consequences. Ultimately, the paper contends that the dangers and uncertainties surrounding bariatric surgery necessitate a reevaluation of its prominence as a weight-loss solution. The conclusion advocates for rigorous research into safer alternatives that prioritize health over mere weight loss, challenging the assumption that being thin equates to improved health. In essence, the paper questions the current medical narrative surrounding obesity and weight loss, urging a shift toward more holistic and less invasive approaches.
Surgically Less Fat: A Case Against Bariatric (Weight-Loss) Surgery
Surgically Less Fat: A Case Against Bariatric (Weight-Loss) Surgery, Aamya Vohra, Dr. Lauren Freeman, Philosophy Department
This paper critically examines the role of bariatric surgery as a primary solution for obesity, delving into its historical roots, procedural variations, patient demographics, and associated benefits and risks. The paper argues against positioning bariatric surgery as the first option for obese patients, emphasizing the unexamined harms it may produce. The discussion encompasses the societal and economic challenges in accessing the surgery, considering factors such as insurance coverage, BMI qualifications, and additional health conditions. The benefits of bariatric surgery, particularly significant weight loss, are contrasted with the long-term risks and complications, including the psychological toll on patients who experience weight regain. Lifestyle modifications post-surgery are scrutinized, revealing the potential inaccessibility and difficulty in maintaining the recommended dietary changes, especially for low-income households. The multifaceted risks associated with the surgery, ranging from dumping syndrome to cardiovascular complications, are thoroughly explored. The paper underscores the underreported issue of malnutrition post-bariatric surgery and its potentially fatal consequences. Ultimately, the paper contends that the dangers and uncertainties surrounding bariatric surgery necessitate a reevaluation of its prominence as a weight-loss solution. The conclusion advocates for rigorous research into safer alternatives that prioritize health over mere weight loss, challenging the assumption that being thin equates to improved health. In essence, the paper questions the current medical narrative surrounding obesity and weight loss, urging a shift toward more holistic and less invasive approaches.