‘Youth see bariatric surgery as a quick fix’

Rita (name changed), a call centre employee, gained 60kgs in six years. She blames her rapid weight gain on odd working hours and a sedentary and stressful lifestyle. Priyanka Vora reports.

Rita (name changed), a call centre employee, gained 60kgs in six years. She blames her rapid weight gain on odd working hours and a sedentary and stressful lifestyle.

“During breaks at work, I would eat what was readily available — burgers, sandwiches and pastries. I would drink countless cups of coffee to keep myself awake,” said Rita, who took a loan for a weight loss surgery that cost Rs. 4 lakh.

Bariatric surgeons across the city claim that an increasing number of call centre employees are opting for weight loss surgeries. Dr Eileen Canday, chief dietician, Breach Candy Hospital, said that many view bariatric surgeries as a “quick fix”. “Because of their hectic work timings, most fail to follow diet plans or include exercise in their daily schedule,” said Canday. “Many patients continue to have unhealthy eating habits even after the surgery.”

Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital, Powai, gets at least three to five such patients every month.“They come to the hospital to shed extra weight, but we detect other medical problems such as diabetes, hypertension and cholesterol during the screening,” said Dr Jayashree Todkar, director of the bariatric surgery department of the hospital.

Dr Sanjay Borude, bariatric surgeon at Breach Candy Hospital, said that of the 20 weight loss surgeries he performs in a month, seven to eight are on call centre employees. “Addiction to alcohol and tobacco is a major contributor to weight gain. Young patients come in as their weight interferes with marriage prospects,” said Borude.