Weight loss surgery may help in reducing urinary problems

Scientists have, with help of two studies, found that urinary problems may be lessened with help of weight loss surgery.

Researchers in New Zealand looked to see if weight loss, or bariatric, surgery in obese individuals might lessen lower urinary tract symptoms. The investigators studied 72 patients who underwent the surgery and were followed for one year. There was significant weight loss and a reduction of body mass index after surgery. At six weeks, a significant reduction in overall symptoms was noted, and this improvement was sustained at one year. Also, insulin sensitivity improved, indicating a lessening of individuals' risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

The investigators noted that it wasn't a surprise that many symptoms and medical problems associated with obesity improve when weight loss occurs. What was surprising was that so many problems, including issues related to urinary function, improved so quickly after bariatric surgery, even before great weight loss has occurred, said senior author Andrew Kennedy-Smith.

Traditional thinking suggests that obesity leads to insulin resistance, but perhaps insulin resistance is itself a major cause of obesity. Therefore, developing effective treatments for insulin resistance may help address a whole raft of conditions, including lower urinary tract symptoms.

The findings are published in BJU International.