Study Shows Lap Band May Be Just as Effective for Teens

As childhood obesity numbers skyrocket, more and more parents are asking questions about the benefits of Lap Band and other bariatric procedures for their teenagers. A recent study conducted by the University of Gothenburg in Sweden shows that these procedures may have a dramatic effect on the lives of teenagers, as well as their long term physical, emotional and social health.

The study, completed at the Sahlgrenska Acadamy, showed that individuals suffering from severe obesity between the ages of 13-18 lost an average of 200-300 pounds after bariatric surgeries including Lap Band, dramatic results for patients at such a young age. These study results were discussed in a recent article by The Sacramento Bee.

Teenagers’ Lives Greatly Improved by Bariatric Surgery

In addition to these impressive weight loss results, patients in the Swedish study were also found to experience a number of other benefits. One benefit of particularly life-saving importance was that these teenagers were found to have a drastically reduced chance of developing cardiovascular conditions, with a significant decrease in cardiovascular risk factors. Other benefits associated with massive weight loss of this type include improvement/cure of diabetes, reduced chances of developing cancer and reduction of sleep apnea symptoms.

The Swedish patients also reported significant improvements to quality of life, noting these improvements across several areas. This is a particularly important finding, as the teenage years are often difficult times for children struggling with obesity. Massive weight loss may help to improve social relationships and prevent bullying or depression.

One of the reasons that the Lap Band procedure is often chosen for younger patients is the flexibility of the device after the procedure. As patients age, their device may be modified within their system to ensure the safest and most effective treatment of their condition at each stage of life. Patients experiencing high levels of success may even be able to remove the device entirely.

Photo by FBellon on Flickr.