The research, published in Hepatology, followed 50 patients with obesity and cirrhosis who underwent bariatric surgery. After a year, the majority saw improvements in liver function, with 70% experiencing a reduction in liver stiffness.
This study provides hope for those with obesity-related liver disease, as bariatric surgery is already known to improve conditions like type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. However, the researchers caution that more studies are needed to confirm these results and determine the long-term effects of bariatric surgery on liver disease.
In the meantime, this research offers a potential new treatment option for patients struggling with obesity and liver disease. It highlights the importance of addressing underlying health conditions like obesity to improve overall health outcomes.
Stay informed about the latest developments in health and medicine by signing up for STAT’s Morning Rounds newsletter. Get the latest news, research, and insights delivered to your inbox every weekday to stay up-to-date on the ever-evolving world of healthcare. Sign up today to start your day with a dose of health and medicine news. A recent study published in Nature Medicine has shown promising results for patients with liver disease who undergo bariatric surgery. The study followed 168 patients over a span of 15 years, with about a third of them undergoing the surgical procedure. The findings revealed that fewer people in the surgical group developed major complications of liver disease, such as cancer and death, compared to those in the non-surgical group.
Co-author of the study, Ali Aminian, expressed optimism about the results, stating, “We can change the trajectory of the disease.” This groundbreaking research highlights the potential benefits of bariatric surgery in managing and improving outcomes for patients with liver disease.
In other news, there have been recent developments in the medical field that are worth noting. From the unique story of a Naval scientist exploring how football players would survive nuclear war to controversies surrounding censorship in medical journals, the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Additionally, the appointment of a veteran researcher to lead the NIH and the underutilization of programs aimed at closing insurance gaps for Native Americans are topics of interest in the medical community.
As we continue to navigate the complexities of healthcare and medical research, it is crucial to stay informed and engaged with the latest developments. The study on bariatric surgery and liver disease is just one example of how research and innovation can make a significant impact on patient outcomes. Stay tuned for more updates and insights from the ever-evolving world of healthcare.