Yasmine Kattou
Bariatric surgery, only reimbursed for the time being against the most severe obesity, can also benefit more moderate cases when they are diabetic, estimated the High Authority for Health (HAS). Type two diabetics, whose body mass index is between 30 and 35, are affected by this new advisory.
Bariatric surgery, until now reimbursed only against severe obesity, could also benefit more moderate cases, decrees the High Authority for Health. Over 40% of people with type 2 diabetes also have obesity. Bariatric surgery makes it possible to lose weight, for example by removing part of the stomach or by placing a gastric band. This operation may be suitable for some diabetics.
A dramatic improvement
Type two diabetics, whose body mass index is between 30 and 35, are affected by this new advisory. This corresponds to a person 1m64 for 84 kilos. Studies show that the chances of curing or stabilizing diabetes are two to three times greater after stomach reduction surgery or gastric banding.
“The modification of the anatomy changes physiological things, in particular the nervous and hormonal relations between the intestine and the rest of the organs of the individual. Changing the anatomy of the intestine results in a very spectacular improvement in the balance glycemia of diabetic patients. Many patients can reduce or even interrupt anti-diabetic treatments in the ten days following the intervention, “says François Patou, head of the surgery department at the Lille University Hospital, at the microphone of Europe 1.
Nine-year increase in life expectancy
According to one study, surgery can increase the life expectancy of diabetics by nine years. However, such an operation can have serious consequences. It imposes an irreproachable follow-up and hygiene of life. As a result, the High Authority for Health only recommends it as a last resort.