Background: The causes of obesity are multifactorial, with genetic, environmental, behavioural and societal contributions. These factors also affect adherence to diet and exercise after bariatric surgery. The objective of this study was to evaluate changes in perceived obesity-related stigma, exercise and dietary adherence perioperatively as well as what demographic factors most influence the magnitude of these changes.
Methods: Validated questionnaires regarding perception of stigma and adherence to diet and exercise regimens were administered to 104 bariatric surgery patients preoperatively and postoperatively at three, six and 12 months. Scoring was compared for improvement, and concomitant factors were analysed for effect on magnitude of improvement.
Results: Our study found overall improvement in perception of stigma as well as adherence to diet and exercise regimens. Those with a family history of obesity had less robust improvement compared to those without a family history of obesity. Those who were Caucasian also did not have as robust of an improvement in their scores.
Conclusions: Patient perception of obesity-related stigma and adherence to diet and exercise regimens improve after bariatric surgery. However, a patient with a family history of obesity and/or a Caucasian ethnicity may have a less robust improvement in these facets.
Keywords: Bariatric surgery; Diet; Exercise; Family history; Mental health.