Cognitive functioning in adolescents with severe obesity undergoing bariatric surgery or intensive non-surgical treatment in Sweden (AMOS2): a multicentre, open-label, randomised controlled trial.

Background: Severe obesity during childhood is associated with cognitive deficits. Studies in adults have suggested improvements in executive functioning and memory after bariatric surgery. Our aim was to explore changes in cognitive function in adolescents over two years after bariatric surgery or intensive non-surgical treatment. Methods: The Adolescent Morbid Obesity Surgery 2 (AMOS2) is a multicentre, open-label, randomised controlled trial in which adolescents (aged 13-16 years) with severe obesity (defined as body mass index (BMI) ≥35 kg/m2) at three specialised obesity centres in Sweden, were randomly assigned to receive bariatric surgery or intensive non-surgical treatment. Herein we report the results of the prespecified exploratory endpoint of change in cognitive functioning. Inclusion in AMOS2 required Tanner pubertal stage ≥3, previous participation in lifestyle obesity treatment for at least one year, and passed assessment form a paediatrician and a paediatric psychologist. Adolescents with severe intellectual disability or other severe, pervasive developmental disorder were excluded. Participants underwent baseline assessment of general intellectual ability, executive functioning, and memory before randomisation. Tests were administrated by clinical psychologists and repeated at one- and two-year follow-up timepoints. Differences in means between groups during follow-up are provided with confidence intervals. The trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02378259. Findings: Between October 28 2015 and June 7 2017, 46 adolescents (74% girls), with a mean age of 15.8 (±0.92) years and a mean BMI of 42.8 (±5.4) kg/m2, were included and randomised (23 to bariatric surgery and 23 to intensive non-surgical treatment). At baseline 23/46 (50%) of the adolescents had general intellectual functioning classified as borderline or below. For 15/18 (83%) aspects of cognitive functioning, no significant differences in change over two years were identified between groups; Immediate (average difference during follow-up 1.0 [95% CI: -2.6 to 4.6]) and Delayed (0.5 [95% CI: -0.6 to 1.6]) Verbal Recall, Category Fluency (1.1 [95% CI: -1.6 to 3.8]) and Switching (1.5 [95% CI: -0.0 to 2.9]), Number (-6.0 [95% CI: -12.3 to 0.3]) and Letter (0.1 [95% CI: -5.2 to 5.3]) Sequencing, Number-Letter Switching (-10.3 [95% CI: -26.4 to 5.8]), Motor Speed (-8.3 [95% CI: -17.5 to 0.9]), Colour Naming (-1.9 [95% CI: -4.2 to 0.3]), Inhibition (-3.6 [95% CI: -9.6 to 2.5]), Inhibition Switching (-6.7 [95% CI: -15.3 to 1.9]), Mazes (-0.5 [95% CI: -4.9 to 3.9]), Digit Span Forward (0.1 [95% CI: -0.6 to 0.9 ]) and Backward (0.6 [95% CI: -0.4 to 1.6 ]), and Estimated IQ (0.4 [95% CI: -3.9 to 4.8]; all p > 0.05). Three sub-tests assessing fundamental cognitive skills improved more over two years in operated adolescents than in intensive non-surgical treatment; Letter Fluency (average difference during follow-up 3.8 [95% CI: 0.1-7.5]; p = 0.046), Visual Scanning (-6.5 [95% CI: -11.6 to -1.5]; p = 0.011), and Word Reading (-1.9 [95% CI: -3.3 to -0.4]; p = 0.011). Interpretation: In contrast to non-randomised studies in adults, we could not demonstrate an association of bariatric surgery and its accompanying significant weight loss with overall greater improvement in executive functions and memory in adolescents over two years compared with a non-surgical group without weight loss. However, lack of statistical power is a potential limitation. The clinical relevance of greater improvements in basic cognitive skills needs to be explored. Funding: Sweden's innovation agency (VINNOVA), Swedish Research Council, Joanna Cocozza foundation for paediatric research, The Skane University Hospital Psychology Research and Development Grant, Tore Nilsson's Foundation, SUS Foundations and Donations, and Mary von Sydow's Foundation.

Changes in adipose tissue distribution and relation to cardiometabolic risk factors after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in adolescents.

BACKGROUND: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) among adolescents with obesity results in significant weight loss; however, depot-specific changes have been understudied. OBJECTIVE: We hypothesized that visceral adipose tissue (VAT) reduction in adolescents undergoing RYGB would be greater than other depots and associated with improvement in cardiometabolic risk factors. SETTING: Three specialized treatment centers in Sweden. METHODS: Fifty-nine adolescents underwent dual x-ray absorptiometry before surgery and at 1, 2, and 5 years after RYGB. Changes in body composition in multiple depots (total fat, lean body, gynoid fat, android fat, subcutaneous adipose tissue, and VAT) and cardiometabolic risk factors were assessed using multiple linear regression analysis and generalized estimating equations adjusting for age, sex, and baseline risk factor levels. Data are presented as percent change (95% CI) with regression models showing slopes and estimated P values. RESULTS: At 1 year post-RYGB, a significant reduction was observed across all body composition measures (P < .001) with the greatest reduction observed in VAT (-65.1% [-68.7, -61.8]). From year 1 to 5 years post-RYGB, a regain was observed in all depots except lean body mass (1.2% [.3, 2.7], P = .105). A sex-specific difference in overall trajectories was only observed in lean body mass with males consistently having higher mean levels. Change in VAT at 1 year correlated with change in triglycerides (slope: .21 mg/dL/kg, P = .034) and fasting plasma insulin (slope: 44 pmol/L/kg, P = .027). CONCLUSIONS: Adiposity measures all decreased after RYGB but poorly predicted change in cardiometabolic risk. Despite significant reductions at 1 year, a steady regain was observed out to 5 years, with values still well below baseline. Further research should consider control group comparison and extended follow-up.

Metabolic and bariatric surgery versus intensive non-surgical treatment for adolescents with severe obesity (AMOS2): a multicentre, randomised, controlled trial in Sweden.

BACKGROUND: Severe obesity in adolescents has a profound impact on current and future health. Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is increasingly used in adolescents internationally. However, to our knowledge, there are no randomised trials examining the currently most used surgical techniques. Our aim was to evaluate changes in BMI and secondary health and safety outcomes after MBS. METHODS: The Adolescent Morbid Obesity Surgery 2 (AMOS2) study is a randomised, open-label, multicentre trial done at three university hospitals in Sweden (located in Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö). Adolescents aged 13-16 years with a BMI of at least 35 kg/m2, who had attended treatment for obesity for at least 1 year, passed assessments from a paediatric psychologist and a paediatrician, and had a Tanner pubertal stage of at least 3, were randomly assigned (1:1) to MBS or intensive non-surgical treatment. Exclusion criteria included monogenic or syndromic obesity, major psychiatric illness, and regular self-induced vomiting. Computerised randomisation was stratified for sex and recruitment site. Allocation was concealed for both staff and participants until the end of the inclusion day, and then all participants were unmasked to treatment intervention. One group underwent MBS (primarily gastric bypass), while the other group received intensive non-surgical treatment starting with 8 weeks of low-calorie diet. The primary outcome was 2-year change in BMI, analysed as intention-to-treat. The trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02378259. FINDINGS: 500 people were assessed for eligibility between Aug 27, 2014, and June 7, 2017. 450 participants were excluded (397 did not meet inclusion criteria, 39 declined to participate, and 14 were excluded for various other reasons). Of the 50 remaining participants, 25 (19 females and six males) were randomly assigned to receive MBS and 25 (18 females and seven males) were assigned to intensive non-surgical treatment. Three participants (6%; one in the MBS group and two in the intensive non-surgical treatment group) did not participate in the 2-year follow-up, and in total 47 (94%) participants were assessed for the primary endpoint. Mean age of participants was 15·8 years (SD 0·9) and mean BMI at baseline was 42·6 kg/m2 (SD 5·2). After 2 years, BMI change was -12·6 kg/m2 (-35·9 kg; n=24) among adolescents undergoing MBS (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass [n=23], sleeve gastrectomy [n=2]) and -0·2 kg/m2 (0·4 kg; [n=23]) among participants in the intensive non-surgical treatment group (mean difference -12·4 kg/m2 [95% CI -15·5 to -9·3]; p<0·0001). Five (20%) patients in the intensive non-surgical group crossed over to MBS during the second year. Adverse events (n=4) after MBS were mild but included one cholecystectomy. Regarding safety outcomes, surgical patients had a reduction in bone mineral density, while controls were unchanged after 2 years (z-score change mean difference -0·9 [95% CI -1·2 to -0·6]). There were no significant differences between the groups in vitamin and mineral levels, gastrointestinal symptoms (except less reflux in the surgical group), or in mental health at the 2-year follow-up. INTERPRETATION: MBS is an effective and well tolerated treatment for adolescents with severe obesity resulting in substantial weight loss and improvements in several aspects of metabolic health and physical quality of life over 2 years, and should be considered in adolescents with severe obesity. FUNDING: Sweden's Innovation Agency, Swedish Research Council Health.

Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery in Adolescents: For Whom, When, and How?

Severe obesity in adolescence profoundly impacts health and social well-being. Lifestyle modifications are seldom successful in maintaining sufficient weight loss to mitigate the risk of complications. Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is a standard treatment for adult patients and has emerged as an option for adolescent patients. Several high-quality studies of adolescent MBS show substantial and sustained improvements both in weight and cardiometabolic parameters, as well as a safety profile similar to that seen in adult patients. Patients report improvements in health- and weight-related quality of life. Concerns around adolescent MBS can be attributed to a fear of side effects on growth and puberty, risk of nutritional deficiencies and osteoporosis, alcohol abuse, psychosocial vulnerability, and the ability to consent in the decision process. Guidelines give somewhat different recommendations, but the most comprehensive guidelines from the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery recommend MBS for class III obesity or class II obesity with comorbidity. This mini-review aimed to pre-sent published data on MBS in adolescents. We discuss indications for MBS and the optimal timing in the young person's life, the choice of surgical method, and MBS in relation to the new anti-obesity medications. Based on data primarily from the USA and Sweden, we conclude that MBS is a valuable treatment option for adolescents with severe obesity that appears underutilized against the backdrop of the poor prognosis of severe obesity. We argue for continued research, development of guidelines, multi-professional teamwork, long-term follow-up, and centralization of adolescent MBS.

Long-term changes in dietary intake and its association with eating-related problems after gastric bypass in adolescents.

BACKGROUND: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery is an established, effective treatment for severe adolescent obesity. Long-term dietary intake and the relationship to eating-related problems are scarcely evaluated in this population. OBJECTIVES: Assess changes in dietary intake in adolescents after RYGB and explore associations between dietary intake and eating-related problems. SETTING: Multicenter study in Swedish university hospitals. METHOD: Diet history, binge eating scale (BES), and Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire were assessed preoperatively and 1, 2, and 5 years after RYGB in 85 adolescents (67% female) aged 16.5 ± 1.2 years with a body mass index (BMI) of 45.5 ± 6.0 kg/m2 and compared with control individuals at 5 years. RESULTS: Five-year BMI change was -28.6% ± 12.7% versus +9.9% ± 18.9% in RYGB patients versus control individuals (P < .001). Through 5 years, RYGB adolescents reported reduced energy intake, portion size of cooked meals at dinner, and milk/yoghurt consumption (P < .01). The BES scores were 9.3 ± 8.3 versus 13.4 ± 10.5 in RYGB patients versus control individuals (P = .04). Association between BES score and energy intake was stronger in control individuals (r = .27 versus r = .62 in RYGB patients versus control individuals, P < .001). At 5 years, lower energy intake was associated with greater BMI loss in all adolescents (r = .33, P < .001). Higher scores in BES and uncontrolled and emotional eating were associated with higher energy intake, cooked meals, candies/chocolates, cakes/cookies, desserts, and sugary drinks (r > .23, P < .04) and lower intake of fruits/berries (r = -.32, P = .044). A higher score in cognitive restraint was associated with a higher intake of cereals and fruits/berries (r > .22, P < .05) and a lower intake of sugary drinks (r = -.24, P < .03). CONCLUSION: To support optimization of long-term outcomes in adolescent RYGB patients, it is important to provide management strategies to reduce energy intake. Monitoring eating-related problems could identify potential individuals at risk of poor weight loss and to initiate treatment interventions.

High prevalence of neurodevelopmental problems in adolescents eligible for bariatric surgery for severe obesity.

AIM: To assess the prevalence of neurodevelopmental problems in adolescents with severe obesity and their associations with binge eating and depression. METHODS: Data were collected at inclusion in a randomised study of bariatric surgery in 48 adolescents (73% girls; mean age 15.7 ± 1.0 years; mean body mass index 42.6 ± 5.2 kg/m2 ). Parents completed questionnaires assessing their adolescents' symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder and reported earlier diagnoses. Patients answered self-report questionnaires on binge eating and depressive symptoms. RESULTS: The parents of 26/48 adolescents (54%) reported scores above cut-off for symptoms of the targeted disorders in their adolescents, but only 15% reported a diagnosis, 32% of adolescents reported binge eating, and 20% reported symptoms of clinical depression. No significant associations were found between neurodevelopmental problems and binge eating or depressive symptoms. Only a third of the adolescents reported no problems in either area. CONCLUSION: Two thirds of adolescents seeking surgical weight loss presented with substantial mental health problems (reported by themselves or their parents). This illustrates the importance of a multi-professional approach and the need to screen for and treat mental health disorders in adolescents with obesity.

Depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation in young adults 5 years after undergoing bariatric surgery as adolescents.

PURPOSE: Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is increasingly used in adolescents. The aim was to explore symptoms of depression and anxiety in young adults over 5 years' follow-up after undergoing MBS. METHODS: Beck Depression Inventory-2 and the Beck Anxiety Inventory were used to assess symptoms of depression and anxiety in 62 patients 1, 2, and 5 years after having Roux-en-Y gastric bypass at 13-18 years of age. Mental health, eating-related problems, and weight outcomes were tested for association with suicidal ideation at the 5-year follow-up. RESULTS: At the 5-year follow-up, the mean score for depression was 11.4 (± 12.4), indicating minimal symptoms of depression. The mean score for anxiety was 12.82 (± 11.50), indicating mild anxiety symptoms. Still, several participants reported moderate or severe symptoms of depression (26%) and anxiety (32%). Women reported more symptoms than men (P = 0.03 and 0.04). No significant changes were found in self-reported symptoms of depression and anxiety between the 1-year and the 5-year follow-up (P = 0.367 and 0.934). Suicidal ideation was reported by 16% at the 5-year follow-up. Participants reporting suicidal ideation had lost significantly less excess weight than participants without suicidal ideation (P = 0.009). CONCLUSION: Five years after adolescent MBS, a substantial minority still struggles with mental health issues, and women are more burdened than men. Our results indicate an association between less optimal weight loss and suicidal ideation 5 years after MBS. The findings emphasize the importance of offering long-term follow-up and mental health treatment several years after MBS. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, cohort study. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT00289705). First posted February 10, 2006.

A randomized controlled trial comparing intensive non-surgical treatment with bariatric surgery in adolescents aged 13-16 years (AMOS2): Rationale, study design, and patient recruitment.

BACKGROUND: Previous non-randomized studies show similar outcomes in adolescents and adults after bariatric surgery. We describe the study protocol, recruitment, and selected baseline data of patients in a randomized multi-center study, the Adolescent Morbid Obesity Surgery 2 (AMOS2). METHODS: Three clinics in Sweden collaborated in designing the study and recruitment of patients from August 1, 2014 to June 30, 2017. Patients were selected among adolescents 13-16 years of age attending third-level obesity care for at least one year. Patients were randomized 1:1 to bariatric surgery (predominantly Roux-en-Y gastric bypass) or intensive non-surgical treatment starting with an eight-week low-calorie-diet. RESULTS: Fifty adolescents (37 girls) were randomized, 25 (19 girls) to bariatric surgery. Mean age was 15.7 years (range 13.3-16.9), weight 122.6 kg (range 95-183.3), Body Mass Index (BMI) 42.6 kg/m2 (range 35.7-54.9) and BMI-SDS 3.45 (range 2.9-4.1). One patient had type 2 diabetes mellitus, and 12/45 (27%) had elevated liver enzymes. There were no significant differences between the groups. For the 39 eligible patients who were offered but declined inclusion, BMI was not different from included patients. However, patients who declined were younger, 15.2 years (p = 0.021). A sex difference was also noted with more of eligible girls, 37/53 (69.8%), than boys, 13/36 (36.1%), wanting to participate in the study (p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS: This clinical trial, randomizing adolescents with severe obesity to bariatric surgery or intensive non-surgical treatment, aims at informing about whether it is beneficial to undergo bariatric surgery in early adolescence. It will also enlighten the outcome of comprehensive non-surgical treatment. The study was registered at www.clinicalTrials.gov number NCT02378259.

5-year mental health and eating pattern outcomes following bariatric surgery in adolescents: a prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Mental health problems are prevalent among adolescents with severe obesity, but long-term mental health outcomes after adolescent bariatric surgery are not well known. We aimed to assess mental health outcomes over 5 years of follow-up after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery in adolescents who participated in the Adolescent Morbid Obesity Surgery (AMOS) study. METHODS: This was a non-randomised matched-control study in adolescents aged 13-18 years who had a BMI of 40 kg/m2 or higher, or 35 kg/m2 or higher in addition to obesity-related comorbidity; who had previously undergone failed comprehensive conservative treatment; and were of pubertal Tanner stage III or higher, with height growth velocity beyond peak. A contemporary control group, matched for BMI, age, and sex, who underwent conventional obesity treatment, was obtained from the Swedish Childhood Obesity Treatment Register. Data on dispensed psychiatric drugs and specialist treatment for mental disorders were retrieved from national registers with complete coverage. In the surgical group only, questionnaires were used to assess self-esteem (Rosenberg Self-Esteem [RSE] score), mood (Mood Adjective Checklist [MACL]), and eating patterns (Binge Eating Scale [BES] and Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire-R21 [TFEQ]). This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT00289705). FINDINGS: Between April 10, 2006, and May 20, 2009, 81 adolescents (53 [65%] female) underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery, and 80 control participants received conventional treatment. The proportion of participants prescribed psychiatric drugs did not differ between groups in the years before study inclusion (pre-baseline; absolute risk difference 5% [95% CI -7 to 16], p=0·4263) or after intervention (10% [-6 to 24], p=0·2175). Treatment for mental and behavioural disorders did not differ between groups before baseline (2% [-10 to 14], p=0·7135); however, adolescents in the surgical group had more specialised psychiatric treatment in the 5 years after obesity treatment than did the control group (15% [1 to 28], p=0·0410). There were few patients who discontinued psychiatric treatment post-surgery (three [4%] receiving psychiatric drug treatment and six [7%] receiving specialised care for a mental disorder before surgery). In the surgical group, self-esteem (RSE score) was improved after 5 years (mixed model mean 21·6 [95% CI 19·9 to 23·4]) relative to baseline (18·9 [17·4 to 20·4], p=0·0059), but overall mood (MACL score) was not (2·8 [2·7 to 2·9] at 5 years vs 2·7 [2·6 to 2·8] at baseline, p=0·0737). Binge eating was improved at 5 years (9·3 [7·4 to 11·2]) relative to baseline (15·0 [13·5 to 16·5], p<0·0001). Relative changes in BMI were not associated with the presence or absence of binge eating at baseline. INTERPRETATION: Mental health problems persist in adolescents 5 years after bariatric surgery despite substantial weight loss. Although bariatric surgery can improve many aspects of health, alleviation of mental health problems should not be expected, and a multidisciplinary bariatric team should offer long-term mental health support after surgery. FUNDING: Swedish Research Council, VINNOVA, Västra Götalandsregionen, ALF VG-region, Region Stockholm, Swedish Child Diabetes Foundation, Swedish Heart and Lung Foundation, Tore Nilsson's Foundation, SUS Foundations and Donations, Capio Research Foundation, and Mary von Sydow's Foundation.

Micronutrient intake and biochemistry in adolescents adherent or nonadherent to supplements 5 years after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery.

BACKGROUND: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is an effective obesity treatment in adults and has become established in adolescents. Lower adherence to supplementation in adolescents confers a risk for long-term nutritional deficiencies. OBJECTIVES: To assess adherence to supplementation, micronutrient intake, and biochemistry in adolescents through 5 years after RYGB. SETTING: University hospitals, multicenter study, Sweden. METHODS: Micronutrient intake and adherence to supplementation were assessed by diet history interviews and biochemistry preoperatively, 1, 2, and 5 years after RYGB in 85 adolescents (67% females), aged 16.5 years (± 1.2) with a body mass index of 45.5 kg/m2 (± 6.0). Adherence was defined as taking prescribed supplements ≥3 times a week. Micronutrient intake and biochemistry were compared with matched controls at 5 years. RESULTS: Over 75% completed the dietary assessments across 5 years after RYGB. Adherence ranged between 44-61% through 5 years. At 5 years, ferritin and hemoglobin decreased (P < .04) and 61% had iron deficiency (P ≤ .001). Among females with iron deficiency, most did not adhere to supplementation (P = .005), and 59% of these had anemia (P < .001). Vitamin D insufficiency continued after surgery and 80% of participants who did not adhere to supplementation had insufficiency (P = .002). Adolescents not adhering had lower levels of vitamin D, B12, and ferritin (females) compared with both adhering adolescents and the control group (all P < .04). CONCLUSIONS: Half of adolescents after RYGB reported sufficient long-term adherence to supplementation. Adhering to supplements and reporting a higher micronutrient intake were associated with more favorable biochemistry. Results support the recommendations for monitoring micronutrient intake and biochemistry in all patients who have undergone RYGB surgery, and the recommendation of higher preventive supplementation of vitamin D and iron in both sexes. As hypothesized, adolescents not adhering had a higher prevalence of long-term micronutrient deficiencies.

Four-year outcome of randomly assigned lifestyle treatments in primary care of children with obesity.

AIM: To assess the four-year outcome in children with obesity randomised to one of two 12-month lifestyle treatment programmes in primary care. METHODS: At baseline, 64 children with obesity aged 8.0-13.0 years were randomised to a treatment programme managed either by a nurse, dietician and physiotherapist (n = 32) or by a nurse and dietician (n = 32). RESULTS: From baseline to follow-up, the mean body mass standard deviation score (BMISDS) had decreased by -0.50 [standard deviation (SD) 0.73], p = 0.002, in the nurse, dietician and physiotherapist group (n = 27), by -0.26 (SD 0.73), p = 0.057 in the other group (n = 29); adjusted mean difference was -0.22, 95% confidence interval -0.59; 0.16, p = 0.25. Changes in weight categories did not differ between the groups: both had a change from obesity to normal weight in 1 and to overweight in 6; in the physiotherapist group 1 case of severe obesity changed to obesity. The combined treatment groups (n = 56) had a mean reduction in BMISDS of -0.37 (SD 0.73) and an improved distribution in weight categories, p = 0.015. CONCLUSION: After four years, there was no difference in outcome between the treatment options. In the treatment groups combined the number of children with obesity and their adiposity measures were significantly lower.

Five-year changes in dietary intake and body composition in adolescents with severe obesity undergoing laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery.

BACKGROUND: Information is scarce on long-term changes in energy intake (EI), dietary energy density (DED), and body composition in adolescents undergoing laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). OBJECTIVES: To investigate long-term changes in EI, DED, and body composition in adolescents after LRYGB. SETTING: University hospitals, multicenter study, Sweden. METHODS: Eighty-five adolescents (67% girls; mean ± standard deviation, age 16.0 ± 1.2 yr, body mass index 45.5 ± 6.1 kg/m2) were assessed preoperatively (baseline) and 1, 2, and 5 years after LRYGB with diet history interviews and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Matched obese adolescent controls receiving nonsurgical treatment were assessed only at 5 years. RESULTS: Weight decreased 31%, 33%, and 28% at 1, 2, and 5 years after LRYGB (P < .001) while controls gained 13% over 5 years (P < .001). Dietary assessments were completed in 98%, 93%, 87%, and 75% at baseline and 1, 2, and 5 years, respectively, and in 65% of controls. Baseline EI (2558 kcal/d), decreased by 34%, 22%, and 10% after 1, 2, and 5 years (P < .05). DED decreased at 1 year (P = .03). Macronutrient distribution was not different from controls at 5 years, but EI and DED were 31% and 14% lower (P < .015). Fat, fat-free, and muscle mass decreased through 5 years after LRYGB (P < .001). Boys preserved muscle mass more than girls (P < .01). Adequate protein intake was associated with preservation of muscle mass (P = .003). CONCLUSIONS: In adolescents undergoing LRYGB EI remained 10% lower 5 years after surgery. Decreased EI and DED, rather than macronutrient distribution, are important factors in weight loss after surgery. Higher protein intake may facilitate preservation of muscle mass.

Binge eating and other eating-related problems in adolescents undergoing gastric bypass: results from a Swedish nationwide study (AMOS).

Bariatric surgery is established as a treatment option for adolescents with severe obesity. Little is known about binge eating (BE) and other eating-related problems in adolescents undergoing bariatric surgery. BE, emotional eating, uncontrolled eating, and cognitive restraint were assessed at baseline, and one and two years after gastric bypass using questionnaires in 82 adolescents (mean age 16.9 years, 67% girls). BE was assessed with the Binge Eating Scale (BES) and other eating-related problems with the Three Factor Eating Questionnaire. Change in eating-related problems over time, along with the relationship between eating behaviors and other aspects of mental health and weight outcome, were analyzed. At baseline, 37% of the adolescents reported BE (defined as a BES score >17). Two years after gastric bypass, adolescents reported less problems related to BE, emotional eating, and uncontrolled eating. Improvements were moderate to large. Adolescents reporting BE at baseline also reported more general mental health and psychosocial weight-related problems before and/or two years after surgery, compared to adolescents with no BE. After surgery adolescents with BE before surgery reported more suicidal ideation than those with no BE at baseline. None of the eating-related problems assessed at baseline was associated with weight outcome after surgery. More binge eating, emotional eating, and uncontrolled eating two years after surgery were associated with less weight loss. In conclusion, eating-related problems were substantially reduced in adolescents after undergoing gastric bypass. However, pre-operative BE seem to be associated with general mental health problems before and two years after surgery, including suicidal ideation. Pre-operative eating-related problems did not affect weight outcome, and our results support existing guidance that BE should not be considered an exclusion criterion for bariatric surgery in adolescents.

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in adolescents with severe obesity (AMOS): a prospective, 5-year, Swedish nationwide study.

BACKGROUND: Severe obesity in adolescence is associated with reduced life expectancy and impaired quality of life. Long-term benefits of conservative treatments in adolescents are known to be modest, whereas short-term outcomes of adolescent bariatric surgery are promising. We aimed to compare 5-year outcomes of adolescent surgical patients after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass with those of conservatively treated adolescents and of adults undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, in the Adolescent Morbid Obesity Surgery (AMOS) study. METHODS: We did a nationwide, prospective, non-randomised controlled study of adolescents (aged 13-18 years) with severe obesity undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass at three specialised paediatric obesity treatment centres in Sweden. We compared clinical outcomes in adolescent surgical patients with those of matched adolescent controls undergoing conservative treatment and of adult controls undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. The primary outcome measure was change in BMI over 5 years. We used multilevel mixed-effect regression models to assess longitudinal changes. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00289705. FINDINGS: Between April, 2006, and May, 2009, 100 adolescents were recruited to the study, of whom 81 underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (mean age 16·5 years [SD 1·2], bodyweight 132·8 kg [22·1], and BMI 45·5 kg/m2 [SD 6·1]). 80 matched adolescent controls and 81 matched adult controls were enrolled for comparison of outcomes. The change in bodyweight in adolescent surgical patients over 5 years was -36·8 kg (95% CI -40·9 to -32·8), resulting in a reduction in BMI of -13·1 kg/m2 (95% CI -14·5 to -11·8), although weight loss less than 10% occurred in nine (11%). Mean BMI rose in adolescent controls (3·3 kg/m2, 95% CI 1·1-4·8) over the 5-year study period, whereas the BMI change in adult controls was similar to that in adolescent surgical patients (mean change -12·3 kg/m2, 95% CI -13·7 to -10·9). Comorbidities and cardiovascular risk factors in adolescent surgical patients showed improvement over 5 years and compared favourably with those in adolescent controls. 20 (25%) of 81 adolescent surgical patients underwent additional abdominal surgery for complications of surgery or rapid weight loss and 58 (72%) showed some type of nutritional deficiency; health-care consumption (hospital attendances and admissions) was higher in adolescent surgical patients compared with adolescent controls. 20 (25%) of 81 adolescent controls underwent bariatric surgery during the 5-year follow-up. INTERPRETATION: Adolescents with severe obesity undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass had substantial weight loss over 5 years, alongside improvements in comorbidities and risk factors. However, gastric bypass was associated with additional surgical interventions and nutritional deficiencies. Conventional non-surgical treatment was associated with weight gain and a quarter of patients had bariatric surgery within 5 years. FUNDING: Swedish Research Council; Swedish Governmental Agency for Innovation Systems; National Board of Health and Welfare; Swedish Heart and Lung Foundation; Swedish Childhood Diabetes Foundation; Swedish Order of Freemasons Children's Foundation; Stockholm County Council; Västra Götaland Region; Mrs Mary von Sydow Foundation; Stiftelsen Göteborgs Barnhus; Stiftelsen Allmänna Barnhuset; and the US National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive, and Kidney Diseases (National Institutes of Health).

Physical Fitness and Body Composition Two Years after Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass in Adolescents.

BACKGROUND: We have previously shown promising results 2 years after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery, within the Adolescence Morbid Obesity Surgery study (AMOS). The aim of the current study was to describe the 2-year outcome in cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition, and functional capacity in the Stockholm subset of the AMOS study. METHODS: Forty-one adolescents (10 male, 31 female, age 14-18 years, body mass index 35-69 kg·m-2) were included. In addition to anthropometric measurements, participants performed a submaximal bicycle test, 6-min walk test, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and a short interview at baseline, 1 and 2 years after surgery. RESULTS: Relative improvements in maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) per kilogram body mass (+62 %) and per kilogram fat-free mass (+21 %), as well as walking distance (+13 %) were observed after 1 year, and persisted 2 years after surgery. Despite a reduction of fat-free mass (-15 %), absolute VO2max was maintained across the full group (+8 %, p = ns) and significantly increased in non-smokers. Body mass and fat mass were significantly decreased (-45.4 and -33.3 kg, respectively). Self-reported physical activity was significantly increased, and pain associated with movement was reduced. CONCLUSIONS: In adolescents with obesity, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass improved VO2max more than could be explained by fat mass loss alone. In combination with improved functional capacity and body composition, these results suggest that surgery in adolescence might add specific benefits of importance for future health.

Characteristics of adolescents with poor mental health after bariatric surgery.

BACKGROUND: About 20% of adolescents experience substantial mental health problems after bariatric surgery. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to explore differences between adolescents with poor mental health (PMH) 2 years after surgery and those with average/good mental health. SETTING: Three university hospitals in Sweden. METHODS: Mental health and health-related quality of life were assessed in 82 of 88 adolescents (mean age: 16.8 yr, 67% female) at baseline and 1 and 2 years after laparoscopic gastric bypass. Possible associations among mental health, weight, and biochemical outcomes were explored. RESULTS: Two years after surgery 16 (20%) adolescents were identified as having PMH. More symptoms of anxiety and depression and worse mental health at baseline significantly predicted PMH 2 years later. The decline in mental health for the PMH group happened mainly during the second year after surgery. Suicidal ideation was reported in 14% of the total sample 2 years postsurgery and was more frequent in the PMH group. Weight outcomes between groups were comparable at all time points, and physical health was equally improved 2 years after surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Although adolescents with PMH after surgery lose as much weight and have similar improvements in physical health compared with other adolescents, special attention should be given to adolescents who report mental health problems at baseline and follow-up, especially during the second year after gastric bypass. The high prevalence of suicidal ideation in adolescents 2 years after bariatric surgery is another indication that longer follow-up is necessary.

Two-year trends in psychological outcomes after gastric bypass in adolescents with severe obesity.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate changes in mental health over 2 years in adolescents undergoing gastric bypass. METHODS: Eighty-eight adolescents (65% girls) aged 13 to 18 years were assessed at baseline and 1 and 2 years after surgery. Generic and obesity-specific questionnaires were used to evaluate outcomes in mental health, also in relation to age- and gender-specific norms. RESULTS: Symptoms of anxiety (P = 0.001), depression (P = 0.001), anger (P = 0.001), and disruptive behavior (P = 0.022) were significantly reduced at 2 years after surgery, as were obesity-related problems (P < 0.001). Self-esteem (P < 0.001), self-concept (P < 0.001), and overall mood (P = 0.025) improved significantly. Improvements were mainly observed during the first year after surgery. The second year was characterized by stabilization. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, disruptive behavior, and self-concept were at normative levels after surgery. However, 19% of the adolescents had depressive symptoms in the clinical range. CONCLUSIONS: A substantial improvement in mental health in adolescents over the first 2 years after gastric bypass was found. Most adolescents had a level of mental health and self-concept similar to norms, but a marked subgroup showed substantial depressive symptoms 2 years after surgery.

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in adolescents with morbid obesity--surgical aspects and clinical outcome.

In this paper, we address surgical aspects on bariatric surgery in adolescents from a nationwide Swedish study. Laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery was performed for 81 adolescents with morbid obesity (13-18 years), while 81 adolescents with obesity-matched by age, sex, and BMI received conventional care. Another comparison group was adults undergoing gastric bypass at the same institution during the same time period. This report addresses the 2-year clinical outcome and five-year surgical adverse event rate. Body weight decreased from 133 kg (SD = 22) at inclusion to 92 kg (SD = 17) after 1 year and was 89 (SD = 18) after 2 years (p < 0·001) representing a 32% (-35 to -30) weight loss after 2 years, corresponding to 76% (-81 to -71) excess weight loss. Weight loss was similar in the adult gastric bypass patients (-31%) while weight gain (+3%) was seen in the conventionally treated obese adolescents. Significant improvement in cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors and inflammation was seen after surgery. The treatment was generally well tolerated and quality of life improved significantly. The surgical adverse events included cholecystectomies (10%) and operations for internal hernia (9%) but no postoperative mortality. Adolescents undergoing laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery achieve similar weight loss to adults. Improvements in risk factors and quality of life were substantial. There were surgical complications similar to the adult group, which may be preventable.

Clinical and biological indicators of dental caries and periodontal disease in adolescents with or without obesity.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to assess clinical, microbiological and inflammatory parameters as indicators for caries and periodontal disease in adolescents with obesity. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-seven adolescents with obesity [body mass index (BMI) 37 ± 4 kg/m(2)] and 28 controls (BMI 20 ± 2 kg/m(2)) answered questionnaires and were investigated regarding salivary parameters, plaque pH drop after a 1-min glucose rinse, oral clinical parameters, inflammatory markers in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and sub-gingival mirobiota. RESULTS: Compared with controls, adolescents with obesity had a lower stimulated salivary secretion rate (1.55 ± 0.63 vs. 2.05 ± 1.05 mL/min, p < 0.05), higher concentrations of secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) (p < 0.001), more decayed tooth surfaces (3.4 ± 6.6 vs. 0.8 ± 1.1, p < 0.05) and more gingivitis (p < 0.01) after controlling for possible confounders. Overall, similar snacking habits, plaque amounts and numbers of deep periodontal pockets were observed. Following the glucose rinse, a slightly more pronounced drop in plaque pH was observed in the obesity group (p > 0.05). No differences in sub-gingival inflammatory or microbial indicators were detected (p > 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: More caries and gingival inflammation were observed in adolescents with obesity. Of the indicators tested, salivary secretion rate was lower and sIgA levels were higher in the obesity group. We are unable to confirm whether differences in caries and gingival inflammation are due to systemic changes that are associated with obesity or due to possible irregular dietary/oral hygiene habits. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Customised oral health preventive programmes and appropriate collaboration with medical personnel in selecting the best diet, medication and psychological support can help improve the general well-being, including oral health, of children with obesity. This may even reduce the risk of oral diseases.

Measurements of total and regional body composition in preschool children: A comparison of MRI, DXA, and anthropometric data.

OBJECTIVE: There are clear sex differences in the distribution of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) in adults, with males having more VAT and less SAT than females. This study assessed whether these differences between the sexes were already present in preschool children. It also evaluated which measures of body composition were most appropriate for assessing abdominal obesity in this age group. DESIGN AND METHODS: One-hundred and five children (57 boys and 48 girls) participated in the study. Body composition was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Weight, height, and waist circumference (WC) were also recorded. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the entire abdomen using sixteen 10-mm-thick T1 -weighted slices was performed in a subgroup of 48 children (30 boys and 18 girls); SAT and VAT volumes were measured using semiautomated segmentation. RESULTS: Boys had significantly more VAT than girls (0.17 versus 0.10 l, P < 0.001). Results showed that VAT correlated significantly with all measurements of anthropometry (P < 0.01) after adjusting for SAT and for total fat mass measured with DXA. The mean limits of agreement between DXA and MRI regarding truncal FM were calculated to be -11.4 (range -17.8 to -3.6), using a Bland-Altman plot. CONCLUSION: Sex differences in adipose tissue distribution are apparent at an early age. MRI is the best method with which to study abdominal fat distribution in young children.