Background:

One in four Canadians suffer from obesity.  Bariatric surgery is the most effective method to achieve substantial and enduring weight loss.  However, one in five individuals who receive bariatric surgery do not lose a significant amount of weight.  Further, one in four individuals regain a significant portion of lost weight within 5-10 years of receiving surgery.

Description of Research Initiative:

This is a joint collaboration with the Newfoundland and Labrador provincial Bariatric Surgery program. We are interested in identifying psychological (i.e., motivation, mood, self-esteem) and social characteristics (i.e. social support) that predict weight-loss and quality of life outcomes following bariatric surgery. Identifying characteristics that predict successful weight loss and improvements in quality of life can help healthcare providers and individuals seeking surgery make informed decisions about the benefits and risks of receiving bariatric surgery.  Moreover, such information can inform interventions aimed at improving long-term outcomes for individuals who undergo surgery. Finally, we are interested in evaluating how psychological and social characteristics change between pre- and post-surgery.

Similar data is being collected in Alberta in collaboration with our colleagues at the Calgary Adult Bariatric Specialty Clinic.

Who can Participate?

Individuals residing in Newfoundland and Labrador who have been approved to receive bariatric surgery may participate in this research.  Please contact us through the “contact us” link at the top of this page if you are interested in participating or would like additional information about the project.