UPDATE APRIL 2002: About 45,000 people have had some form of weight loss surgery since 2001, 50% more than in 2000. An unknown number of people died from WLS complications in 2001 -- their numbers unknown because deaths caused by WLS are often underreported or misdiagnosed. Still more have their lives dramatically impacted by the side-effects and complications of this procedure. Virtually all will develop eating-disordered behaviors, as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) refers to gastric bypass procedures as "induced bulimia."

Other risks associated with WLS, according to the NIH*:

  • Ten to 20 percent of patients who have weight-loss operations require followup operations to correct complications. Abdominal hernias are the most common complications requiring followup surgery. Less common complications include breakdown of the staple line and stretched stomach outlets.

  • More than one-third of obese patients who have gastric surgery develop gallstones. Gallstones are clumps of cholesterol and other matter that form in the gallbladder. During rapid or substantial weight loss a person's risk of developing gallstones is increased.

  • Nearly 30 percent of patients who have weight-loss surgery develop nutritional deficiencies such as anemia, osteoporosis, and metabolic bone disease.

  • Women of childbearing age should avoid pregnancy until their weight becomes stable because rapid weight loss and nutritional deficiencies can harm a developing fetus.

    * Taken from the NIH website

Some doctors, physicians and even celebrities refer to WLS as a "last chance" for improved health and weight loss. Yet where are the long-term studies to show that quality of life was improved, that length of life was increased or that weight did not come back? According to what ISAA has available, this information has not been released to the public.

It is ISAA's belief that the public has not been properly informed about the dangers that WLS poses and why it should be avoided at all costs. The Board of Directors of ISAA has resolved to take a public stand against WLS. ISAA will provide information on alternatives to WLS and ISAA would like to offer a memorial to those who lost their lives (and/or their quality of life) and their loved ones.

WLS is a booming business but who really benefits? You'll have to judge that for yourself after presented with the facts. This section of the ISAA website will continue to grow and evolve over time.

Thank you for yours.

Sincerely,

Allen Steadham, Director
International Size Acceptance Association (ISAA)



ISAA's Official Position On Weight Loss Surgery


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