Current Knowledge and Perceptions of Bariatric Surgery among Diabetologists and Internists in Poland

Abstract

Perioperative care and follow-up after bariatric surgery (BS) engage various medical professionals. It is key for them to be well informed about these procedures. However, knowledge and attitudes may be not satisfactory enough to provide proper care. We aimed to assess knowledge and perceptions of BS among diabetologists and internists. A total of 34 diabetologists and 30 internists completed the electronic questionnaire. There were no differences in self-estimated knowledge between them, except regarding items related to the treatment of diabetes and metabolic control. Several misconceptions were identified in the questions testing the understanding of key issues in BS. Most participants considered BS effective in weight loss and metabolic control. A total of 75% highlighted the lack of appropriate equipment for dealing with morbidly obese patients. Interestingly, in a multivariable linear regression model, self-estimated knowledge was the only variable associated with frequency of referrals to bariatric surgeons. A total of 92% of respondents were interested in broadening their knowledge. Guidelines for long-term follow-up and funding were the most frequently chosen topics to explore. The study showed a positive attitude of diabetologists and internists towards surgical treatment of obesity and identified some significant gaps in knowledge. The results may be helpful in planning trainings to provide the best care for patients suffering from morbid obesity.

An Alarmingly Increasing Number of Candidates for Bariatric Procedures among Professionally Active Poles and its Strong Relationship with Cardiovascular Co-Morbidities – POL-O-CARIA 2022 study

“…Employing a comprehensive analytical approach, we derived estimations regarding the trends in Body Mass Index (BMI). While previous analyses have explored the prevalence of obesity in Poland in preceding years, none have focused on the present time frame nor have they encompassed such an extensive patient pool [14].…”

An Alarmingly High Number of Candidates for Bariatric Procedures among Professionally Active Poles and Its Strong Relationship with Cardiovascular Co-Morbidities—POL-O-CARIA 2022 Study

“…In this research study, we utilized data obtained from a substantial cohort of 1,450,455 distinct adult patients. Employing a comprehensive analytical approach, we derived estimations regarding the trends in body mass index (BMI); while previous analyses have explored the prevalence of obesity in Poland in preceding years, none have focused on the present time frame nor have they encompassed such an extensive patient pool [16].…”

Baseline 25(OH)D level is a prognostic indicator for bariatric surgery readmission: a matched retrospective cohort study

“…Bariatric surgery is increasingly utilized for patients with obesity and obesity-associated conditions owing to its benefits of significant weight loss, increased life expectancy, and reduced all-cause mortality ( 2 ). Weight recovery is the fastest in the first year after the surgery, with a substantial remission of primary comorbidities over the next 5 years ( 3 , 4 ).…”