UPDATES ON SURGICAL CARE FOR OBESITY IN KAZAKHSTAN: A SINGLE CENTER RETROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY OF BARIATRIC SURGERY OUTCOMES

Background: Aim of this study is to present results and evaluate mid-term outcomes on using of three bariatric procedures - laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, and One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass in the Kazakhstani population. According to the World Obesity Federation Kazakhstan is among countries that has high obesity rates, however there are not enough mechanisms in place to regulate it and there is still limited access to bariatric surgery. Materials and Method: This study employed retrospective design. Patients undergoing bariatric surgery at the Syzganov National Scientific Center of Surgery between January 2018 and December 2023 were consecutively recruited for the study. Result: The primary outcomes of this study were the percentages of excess weight loss and total weight loss at 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-months post-surgery. Secondary outcomes included perioperative adverse events for each surgical group and improvement in obesity-related medical conditions. The findings demonstrate the potential of surgical interventions to address the growing burden of obesity and its metabolic consequences. Conclusion: While all procedures demonstrated efficacy, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy was associated with rapid reductions in BMI and excess weight loss, while Roux-en-Y gastric bypass achieved greater absolute weight loss over time. One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass offered a balanced alternative, though it showed an increased incidence of gallstone formation. The demonstrated efficacy of bariatric surgery supports its inclusion in mandatory health insurance coverage in Kazakhstan, potentially improving patient access and reducing long-term healthcare costs associated with obesity-related comorbidities.