Assessment of The Long-Term Negative Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Health in Saudi Adults, over 3 Years after Surgery: A Cross-Sectional Study
Abstract
Background: Bariatric surgery is a highly effective therapy for serious obesity. However, it has certain long-term complications that are due to deficiencies in nutrients, malabsorption, and weight loss. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of long-term complications and associated factors after bariatric surgery among Saudi Arabian adults.
Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Saudi Arabia between March 1-14, 2021. The sample was 497 subjects above 18 years of age, both sexes, and greater than 3 years post-bariatric surgery. A specially designed and validated online questionnaire was posted on social media.
Results: The sample was 495 subjects (36.6% male, 63.4% female). The average BMI upon study was 29.07. Frequent long-term complications included hair loss (68.5%), mood swings (50.5%), bone pain (43.8%), lethargy (41.2%), anemia (23.4%), and gallstone diagnosis (19.3%). Gallstone development had a significant association with a post-operative time of over 5 years (p=0.020). Bone pain (p=0.000) and muscle cramps (p=0.000) were reported by females than by males. Moreover, significant weight regain was observed in the subjects operated 5 or more years ago, with an average BMI of 31.48±7.351 (p=0.000).
Conclusion: This study indicates the high prevalence of long-term micronutrient deficiency symptoms and other associated health problems following bariatric surgery in the Saudi population despite presumed compliance with supplementation programs. Weight regain is also reported to be a significant problem after 5 years. The findings highlight the importance of intensive long-term follow-up, patient-centered nutritional management, and public education initiatives about the potential lifelong consequences of bariatric surgery.
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Authors
Copyright (c) 2025 Abdullah Mishal Almutairi, Prof. Mohammed A. Alsaif
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