Understanding the bariatric surgical patient: a demographic, lifestyle and psychological profile.
BACKGROUND
Although improved recently, the public is generally unaware of current scientific knowledge in bariatrics and the availability of surgery for massive obesity. As bariatric professionals we recognize the need for this education. Understanding the patientís socio-economic, demographic and psychological make-up and lifestyle preferences is a crucial element.


METHODS
1200 obesity surgery patients were sent questionnaires to assess a variety of personal parameters. 395 (33%) were returned and tabulated. A literature review of the obese person's psychological profile was also summarized.


RESULTS
An overview of these patients' height, weight, age, ethnicity, marital, educational and employment status, number of children, residential population, and income are presented. Their television and movie viewing, radio listening, social event participation, print media and Internet habits are described. The psychological profile is outlined so that the whole person is understood.


CONCLUSIONS
Understanding the obese person is primary to effectively educating the public. There are many appropriate and much-needed applications of this information to the public, the obese population, other health-care providers, legislators, and insurers.
Fox
K M
KM
Medical Services Organization, Seattle, WA, USA. dr.srfox@worldnet.att.net
Taylor
S L
SL
Jones
J E
JE
D000328:Adult; D003710:Demography; D005260:Female; D006266:Health Education; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D009767:Obesity, Morbid / Q000523:psychology / Q000601:surgery