Prevalence and Factors Associated with Weight Regain Following Bariatric Surgery: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study

Abstract

Background: Bariatric surgery is an effective intervention for obesity, yet weight regain post-surgery remains a significant challenge. Understanding the prevalence and associated factors can inform postoperative management and improve long-term outcomes.
Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of weight regain following bariatric surgery and identify demographic, clinical, and behavioral factors associated with this phenomenon.
Methods: A multicenter retrospective cohort study was conducted, reviewing medical records of patients who underwent bariatric surgery from January 2015 to December 2020. Weight measurements and patient demographics were collected, and statistical analyses were performed to determine the prevalence of weight regain and associated factors.
Results: Out of 1,200 patients, 35% experienced weight regain of more than 10% of their initial weight. Factors significantly associated with weight regain included older age, lower preoperative body mass index (BMI), and non-adherence to dietary guidelines. Additionally, psychological factors such as depression and lack of support systems were prevalent among those who regained weight.
Conclusion: The prevalence of weight regain following bariatric surgery is notable, highlighting the need for ongoing support and monitoring. Identifying at-risk populations based on demographic and behavioral factors can aid in developing targeted interventions to enhance long-term success post-surgery.