History, Current Status, and Future of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery in China

Abstract: The global obesity issue is progressively worsening, becoming a significant public health challenge. According to statistics, the global obesity population continues to increase, surpassing 30% of the total population, with China's obesity figures also rapidly escalating, exceeding 50% of adults being diagnosed as overweight or obese. Obesity not only affects individual health but also closely associates with various chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, imposing a substantial burden on society and economy. Currently, there exists a variety of methods to address obesity, including dietary control, physical activity, pharmaceutical interventions, and surgical treatments. However, among these approaches, bariatric metabolic surgery (BMS) has been proven to be one of the most effective methods, particularly for patients with obesity-related comorbidities, showcasing more significant results. This trend has given rise to the development of metabolic surgery in the context of obesity. China, being one of the nations most severely affected by the obesity issue, has witnessed over two decades of development in the field of metabolic and bariatric surgery. At present, this field is experiencing a phase of rapid expansion. This paper provides an overview of the background and concept of metabolic and bariatric surgery in China, reviews the historical progression and development of this field, including various surgical techniques and technological breakthroughs. Furthermore, it delves into the challenges and opportunities faced by metabolic and bariatric surgery in China and presents recommendations for its future advancement.