Running the Obstacle Course: Improving the Utilization of Bariatric Surgery in Adolescent Obesity

The obesity epidemic in the adolescent population continues to worsen despite increased awareness. Although there is an improved understanding of the role of bariatric surgery in the treatment of obesity in adolescents, a number of barriers still prevent its widespread utilization. The lack of formal obesity-focused education in the training curricula of primary care providers (PCPs), coupled with variable distribution of comprehensive resources, creates an inhospitable environment for effective anti-obesity treatment in adolescents. In addition, racial disparities and variability in insurance coverage contribute to the complexity of this problem. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has exacerbated the rate of childhood obesity and emphasized the need for bariatric surgery as an adjunctive treatment. This article highlights 3 barriers to bariatric surgery: (1) hesitation to refer for surgery; (2) limitation in available resources; and (3) racial disparities in anti-obesity treatment. Potential systemic solutions to such obstacles are examined.