Bridging the gap between bariatric surgery and continuous multidisciplinary care

Conversely, the lack of followers for reliable educational support groups may have adverse impacts on patient lives and well-being.5 Whether bariatric surgery is perceived as a quick fix for obesity among the public is concerning. [...]healthcare professionals are prone to assuming bariatric surgery as a one-stop solution to ease the overwhelming complications of obesity. Bariatric surgery is indicated for patients with a BMI of >32.5 kg/m2 and metabolic syndrome or cardiovascular risk and patients with a BMI of >37.5 kg/m2 without such comorbidities.10 Nevertheless, BMI alone may not accurately illustrate the impact of adiposity on cardiometabolic risk and quality of life.7 Considering the complexity and heterogeneity of BMI, there are evolving efforts to steer away from using this parameter in obesity risk stratification and therapeutic deliberation for PLwO, especially in the era of precision medicine. The foetus developed intrauterine growth restriction, and elective caesarean section had to be performed. [...]effective contraception aiming for 12-24-month spacing, adequate macronutrient and micronutrient dietary intake and enteral supplementation or even parenteral nutrition in cases of hyperemesis gravidarum are crucial after bariatric surgery.17 Moving towards recognising obesity as a chronic disease, we urge administrators, clinicians and researchers in Malaysia to use first-person language such as PLwO in clinical practices and academic writings. Weight bias and stigma can result in discrimination, undermining human rights, social rights and the health of afflicted individuals.18,19 This aspect is critical in primary care, where ensuring equitable access to holistic, multidisciplinary approach and continuous care is paramount.