Obesity and COVID 19

Posted on March 20th, 2021

Even the worst of times creates new knowledge that will be of use in the future.  In the case of the COVID 19 pandemic,  a connection between obesity and its deliterious effects on the immune system has been clearly demonstrated.

Once again,  obesity is a metabolic illness,  hence the reality bariatric surgery is really metabolic surgery not simply weight loss surgery that restricts intake of food.

Varioius mechanisms are at play in the effects of obesity on the immune system.   An obese physiology creates and harbors inflammatory chemicals in the body.  These chemicals are also known to contribute to heart disease,  vascular disease,  stress, fatigue,  infertility,  liver disease and many more illnesses.

A recent publication in a well known scientific obesity journal shows that patients who underwent bariatric surgery and lost weight did much better if infected with the corona virus than the patients who did not have surgery and were still morbidly obese.  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.soard.2020.10.026

Just another example how people who suffer from morbid obesity can have a longer and healthier life after successful bariatric surgery.

Dr. David L. Chengelis, MD  FACS,  Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery, PC has nearly two decades of experience in the field of bariatric surgery. 
He practices at the Corewell Health East Beaumont University Hospital, Royal Oak.
 Appointments are available at 249 291 6516