SHAH ALAM - At least 15,000 bariatric surgeries have been performed in Malaysia to address obesity and related health issues, with an estimated 1,500 to 2,500 procedures carried out each year.
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Consultant Surgeon and Head of the UGI Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Unit at Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz Associate Professor Datuk Dr Nik Ritza Kosai Nik Mahmood said the increase is driven by growing public awareness about health.
He said the rate of bariatric surgery has increased by 10 to 15 per cent annually over the past decade, with a noticeable rise in the past five years.
However, there is growing concern as some celebrities and influencers are treating it as a quick fix to look beautiful without considering the risks involved.
"In Malaysia, we have about 40 bariatric surgeons performing the procedure. However, it’s important to note that not everyone is eligible for bariatric surgery as there are strict guidelines that must be followed.
"The basic requirement is that this treatment is recommended for individuals aged 18 to 65. In terms of BMI (Body Mass Index), a person must have a BMI of 32.5 or higher with obesity-related health issues such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, fatty liver, snoring or joint pain.
"For individuals with a BMI of 37.5 and above, even without any underlying health issues, they are also eligible.
"In certain cases, patients with a BMI of 27.5 and above may also qualify for bariatric surgery if they have uncontrolled diabetes,” he told Sinar.
He emphasised that individuals with a BMI under 30 and no health issues are not encouraged to undergo bariatric surgery.
Dr Nik Ritza said that bariatric treatment is specifically meant for obesity and individuals who are thin or have an ideal body weight are not eligible for such treatment.
"We acknowledge that some people are obsessed with losing weight and are willing to try anything. Some even take shortcuts by using medications meant for diabetes patients.
"These drugs can cause weight loss as a side effect, but they are not suitable to be taken without a doctor’s prescription.
"In my view, people who want to become beautiful the easy way are making the wrong choice because they are not thinking about the side effects of their actions,” he said.
He added that there are several categories of people who are not eligible for bariatric surgery, such as those with severe heart and lung conditions, stroke patients, individuals with psychological or psychiatric disorders and those dependent on blood-thinning medication.
Dr Nik Ritza further shared that most patients seeking bariatric surgery already suffer from multiple health problems.
Interestingly, the majority of those seeking treatment are women, accounting for 60 to 70 per cent of patients.
"Male patients usually come in much later, often only when their condition has become very serious. It's only when obesity starts to interfere with their lives that they seek medical help.
"However, with medical advancements, patients can now receive bariatric treatment through four methods: medication, balloon therapy, endoscopic treatment (Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty/ESG), and surgery.
"For individuals with severe obesity and uncontrolled diabetes, bariatric surgery is the most appropriate option.
"In any case, they must first seek advice from medical professionals before undergoing any treatment,” he concluded.