Why access to bariatric surgery in Nigeria remains critical challenge, by medical experts

Access to bariatric and metabolic surgery services emerged as a major issue at a two-day scientific conference held in Lagos under the theme, ‘Exploring the paths towards growth and prosperity for weight loss surgery in Nigeria.’ The annual event, organised by the Bariatric and Metabolic Surgeons Society of Nigeria (BMSSN), Lagos chapter brought together medical experts who examined barriers to treatment, patient outcomes and pathways to make life saving obesity care more accessible across Nigeria. Bariatric surgery is a surgical procedure performed on the stomach or intestine to treat sever obesity. By altering the digestive system, it helps patients lose weight and manage hunger. Speaking at the conference, President Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery Society of Nigeria, Abuchi Okaro, said that the theme of the conference was ideal as it would help bariatric surgeons in Nigeria build on their successes after I5 years of bariatric surgery in the country and get themselves ready for the future. Okaro, a Consultant General, Upper Gastrointestinal and Bariatric Surgeon at Euracare Hospital Lagos described I5 years of bariatric surgery in Nigeria as a journey of pioneers, patients and progress.