Current and Future Endoscopic Weight Loss Solutions

Obesity poses a significant health care concern in the United States, with 39.8% of adults being classified as obese. Several different methods have been introduced to combat obesity, from medical therapy to surgical options. Bariatric surgery has been demonstrated to be superior to medical therapy alone for weight loss in obese patients. Despite this information, only about 1% of eligible patients undergo bariatric surgery per year. The reason for this treatment gap is multifactorial, but patient apprehension to undergo surgery is a major driving force. Many patients perceive bariatric surgery as dangerous, and believe that living with their current weight is safer than undergoing surgery. To combat this treatment gap, endoscopic therapies have been developed to reach more patients in a less invasive way. This article will review endoscopic treatment options currently available and approved by the Food and Drug Administration, as well as other treatment modalities that are currently in development.