The Journal of the American College of Cardiology reports that a recent study indicates that bariatric surgery is more effective than medicine alone in controlling high blood pressure in obese individuals. After five years, although both groups managed to keep their blood pressure within a normal range, those who had bariatric surgery had a lower body mass index (BMI) and required fewer drugs.
The authors conclude that lowering blood pressure and the risks of cardiovascular disease, such as heart attacks, heart failure, and stroke, is best accomplished by combating obesity. Robert Pilchik, MD, a board certified cardiologist with Manhattan Cardiology, further explained that there are direct and indirect benefits of weight reduction after bariatric surgery that lead to improved blood pressure. Read the article.
