The impact of bariatric surgery on the quality of life of obese individuals in Saudi Arabia

Background: Obesity is a major health problem. It affects the mental and physical health, and leads to significant comorbidities like diabetes, stroke, hypertension, coronary heart disease, osteoarthritis, and obstructive sleep apnea. Thereby, this study aimed to measure the impact of bariatric interventions on different aspects of patients’ quality of life (QoL), including physical, mental, and social health, and other aspects. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among individuals who underwent bariatric surgery (BS) in Saudi Arabia. A validated questionnaire short form 36 was translated into Arabic and was used to assess the QoL of patients who underwent BS. Eligibility criteria included 14 years of age or above, a body mass index of more than or equal to 40 kg/m2, and surgery was done 6 months back or after. Results: The mean score of the overall QoL before surgery was 53.7, while after surgery was 75.6 (mean difference = 26.75). When the six domains of QoL were assessed before and after surgery, a significant improvement after surgery could be noted, specifically in the physical health functioning with 54.7-81.4 pre and post, respectively. This was followed by limitation of activities [55.7 (pre)-80.1 (post) (mean difference = 24.38)]. Conclusion: A significant improvement in the QoL was observed among obese individuals who underwent BS. Among the QoL domains, physical health functioning and limitation of activities were the most highly regarded with significant improvement.