Date of Award

Spring 4-21-2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Medical Science (MMSc)

First Advisor

Jorge Moreno, MD

Abstract

Obesity incidence and access to obesity care are directly impacted by social determinants of health. The cumulative negative effects from social determinants of health lead to higher social vulnerability and lower socioeconomic status, which are linked with increased incidence of obesity. Bariatric surgery is an effective treatment for obesity that improves quality of life, but little is known regarding how social determinants of health impact quality of life improvement after surgery. We seek to determine whether bariatric surgery improves quality of life in patients of varying levels of social vulnerability. Our prospective cohort study will assess mean change in quality of life using a standardized survey prior to bariatric surgery and 1-year post-operation. Social vulnerability will be evaluated using a standardized self-assessment tool and responses will stratify participants. Study results will elucidate the disparities in quality of life change in bariatric surgery, and can be used to create targeted solutions.

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