Pediatric obesity surgeries to begin in Turku and other hospitals across Finland

Starting next spring, pediatric and adolescent obesity surgeries will be systematically performed in several university hospitals across Finland. Professor Paulina Salminen, a senior physician at Turku University Hospital, estimates that around ten children and adolescents may undergo surgery in Turku over the next year, with potentially several dozen nationwide.

It is crucial to emphasize that discussions surrounding surgery focus on severely obese children and adolescents, rather than those who are merely overweight. According to national guidelines, obesity surgery may be considered for 13 to 18-year-olds in the late stages of puberty if conventional obesity treatments have proven ineffective and their condition significantly impairs their quality of life or leads to associated health issues.

Salminen states that these young patients are, in many ways, physically adult. The evaluation process mirrors that of adults, and it is essential for the young individuals to be mature enough to consider the possibility of surgery themselves.

The initiative is backed by a national multidisciplinary working group led by Salminen, which has drawn lessons from experiences in countries like Sweden and the United States.

The surgeries aim for long-lasting results, potentially lasting 25 to 30 years, to reduce health risks associated with severe obesity. However, surgery alone does not resolve the issue; the patient’s commitment to changing dietary habits and patterns is critical. Adequate psychological and emotional support is also particularly important for children and adolescents.

Salminen criticizes the treatment of severe obesity in Finland, arguing it is neglected compared to other chronic diseases. Currently, only about 1-2 percent of eligible patients access these treatments, and she seeks to reduce the stigma surrounding this issue, as many patients often unjustly blame themselves for their condition.