On Monday’s NBC Nightly News, (March 31, 2014), Brian Williams reported that “researchers have found that weight loss surgery for” patients with type 2 diabetes can be more effective than taking medication in beating this disease.”
USA Today reported that investigators “followed 150 patients, one-third of whom were treated for their diabetes with medication and lifestyle changes alone, one-third who also got gastric bypass surgery and one-third who had a different type of bariatric surgery called a sleeve gastrectomy.”
The Los Angeles Times reported that the researchers found that “bariatric surgery did more to improve symptoms of diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol after three years than intensive treatment with drugs alone.” Meanwhile those who underwent “sleeve gastrectomy also lost more weight, had better kidney function and saw greater improvements in their quality of life than their counterparts who did not” undergo surgery.
Time reported that while investigators “determined their findings at the three year mark, major improvements were seen in some patients immediately after surgery.” In fact, “ some patients had total insulin control even just hours post-surgery or a few days later.” The AP reported, however, that “insulin use rose in the medication group, from 52% at the start to 55 % at three years.
The Surgical Specialists of Louisiana and Mississippi have nine advanced laparoscopic weight loss surgeons who perform all bariatric procedures. They offer free weekly seminars where potential patients can meet the surgeon and learn more about their weight loss surgery options. To speak with a patient advocate about your insurance coverage or to register for a seminar visit www.whyweight.com. Or watch a seminar online.
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