CARACTERIZAÇÃO DO APOIO SOCIAL PERCEBIDO EM PACIENTES BARIÁTRICOS PRÉ E PÓS-CIRÚRGICOS

Abstract

Characterisation of perceived social support in pre- and post-bariatric surgery patients The amount of people living with obesity and overweight has increased in the past years at both national and international levels. Thus, the bariatric surgery appears as a treatment option for those individuals, though it is not enough to guarantee successful outcomes. That depends on the existence of habits that might influence weight loss or weight maintenance. The acquisition of such habits and weight loss as well as other desirable outcomes for bariatric patients have been associated with patients' levels of social support. That being said, this study analysed the characteristics of social support in pre- and post-surgery patients. For that, we have used the Social Support Scale (MOS-SSS) and a biosociodemographic questionnaire. This research was conducted in remote format, through Google Forms, with non-probability and convenience sampling. The data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study showed high (tangible support, affective support and positive social interaction) and medium (emotional/informational support) levels of support among bariatric patients, with no significant differences between the pre- and post-surgery groups. Furthermore, differences between the affective and emotional/informational support and the reasons for weight regain have been found, and also associations between depression and positive social interaction. With this study, we hope to contribute with further investigation as well as with the planning and interventions in health care.