Obesity prevention and bariatric surgery treatment challenges

In observance of National Obesity Prevention Day on October 11, health experts are highlighting the complexities of treating obesity, which the World Health Organization defines as a chronic and progressive disease. While weight-loss medications, often referred to as ‘canetinhas’, have become popular, medical professionals emphasize that they should not be used as isolated solutions. Effective treatment requires an individualized approach including dietary changes, physical activity, and monitoring body composition.

Data from the Ministry of Health shows that obesity rates in Brazil's capital cities and the Federal District rose to 25.7% in 2024, up from 11.8% in 2006. While bariatric surgery is a common treatment—with over 5,000 procedures performed via the Unified Health System (SUS) in 2024—the significant weight loss can lead to complications such as excess skin, which may cause infections or mobility issues.

Legal experts note that when such procedures are medically necessary for functional or reparative reasons rather than purely aesthetic ones, health insurance providers are required to cover them. The Superior Court of Justice has consolidated this understanding, provided there is detailed medical documentation justifying the clinical necessity.