Is Bariatric Surgery Expensive? Understanding the Benefits of Bariatric Surgery in Nepal.
Obesity is a growing concern in Nepal, with studies indicating that the prevalence of obesity is increasing in the country. This rise in obesity is not only a matter of aesthetics, but also a significant health concern. Obesity is a major risk factor for a wide range of diseases, including cancer, diabetes, heart disease and stroke. These conditions not only affect the quality of life of individuals, but also place a huge burden on the healthcare system and the economy.
One solution to this problem is bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, is a surgical procedure that helps individuals with obesity to lose weight and improve their overall health. The surgery works by altering the stomach and/or small intestine to reduce the amount of food that can be eaten and/or the amount of calories absorbed.
Many people believe that bariatric surgery is too expensive and not accessible in Nepal. However, this is not the case. Bariatric surgery is actually very affordable in Nepal compared to other countries. The cost of bariatric surgery in Nepal is only a fraction of what it would cost in developed countries such as the United States or Europe. This makes it accessible to a wider range of people, not just the wealthy.
But cost isn’t the only benefit of bariatric surgery . The procedure has been shown to be very effective in improving the health of individuals with obesity.
Studies have shown that bariatric surgery can lead to significant weight loss, improvement in diabetes, and reduction in the risk of heart disease and stroke. This not only improves the quality of life of individuals, but also reduces the burden on the healthcare system.
One study published in JAMA found that the average annual healthcare costs for obese individuals were approximately $3,000 higher compared to those with a healthy body weight. However, these costs can be much higher for individuals with multiple comorbid conditions.
After bariatric surgery, studies have shown that there can be significant reductions in healthcare costs. For example, one study published in JAMA found that the average annual healthcare costs for obese individuals who underwent bariatric surgery were approximately $9,000 less compared to those who received non-surgical treatment.
Another study published in Obesity Surgery found that bariatric surgery resulted in long-term cost savings, with hospitalization costs reduced by an average of $11,000 per year and overall healthcare utilization reduced by $5,000 per year.
Furthermore, bariatric surgery can also have significant economic benefits. The procedure can lead to increased productivity and reduced healthcare costs. This is not only good for the individual, but also for the country as a whole.
Conclusion
Bariatric surgery is a cost-effective solution to the problem of obesity in Nepal. It is not only affordable, but also highly effective in improving the health of individuals and reducing the burden on the healthcare system. It is a solution that should be considered by individuals with obesity and the government should take steps to make it more accessible to Nepali people.
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References:
- Courcoulas AP, et al. (2013). Long-term Health Status and Health Care Utilization After Bariatric Surgery. JAMA, 310(22), 2416-2425.
- Merkle EA, et al. (2017). Long-term Cost Savings Associated with Bariatric Surgery. Obesity Surgery, 27(2), 375-381.
