Two recent studies shed light on the potential benefits of weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, in reducing the frequency and severity of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) among overweight individuals.
The first study, conducted by researchers at Saint-Louis Hospital in France, analyzed data from 4,666 male patients aged 55 to 100. They found a significant association between metabolic syndrome and treated lower urinary tract symptoms, with metabolic syndrome being reported in 51.5% of patients and 47% being treated for LUTS. Additionally, the risk of being treated for LUTS increased with the number of metabolic syndrome components. The authors suggest that promoting dietary changes and regular physical activity may help prevent these modifiable factors, benefiting public health.
In a similar study conducted in New Zealand, researchers investigated whether bariatric surgery could reduce LUTS in obese individuals. The study found a significant reduction in overall symptoms six weeks after surgery, with this improvement sustained for a year. Interestingly, improvements in LUTS were observed soon after surgery and were not necessarily correlated with the degree or time course of weight loss.
Both studies highlight the potential role of weight loss surgery in alleviating lower urinary tract symptoms, providing valuable insights into the management of these conditions. These findings contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the benefits of bariatric surgery beyond weight loss alone.