Obesity is a major independent risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD), a condition caused by the buildup of plaque within the arteries supplying blood to the heart. Excess body weight contributes to multiple mechanisms that accelerate coronary disease, including insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, chronic inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction.

Patients with obesity are more likely to develop early and aggressive coronary artery disease, often at a younger age. Symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath, reduced exercise tolerance, or may remain silent until a serious cardiac event occurs. Traditional risk management focuses on medication and lifestyle modification, but these approaches may be insufficient when obesity-driven metabolic dysfunction persists.

Bariatric surgery plays a significant role in reducing the long-term risk of coronary artery disease by addressing multiple cardiovascular risk factors simultaneously. Sustained weight loss improves blood pressure control, normalizes lipid levels, reduces inflammation, and enhances insulin sensitivity. These changes collectively slow the progression of atherosclerosis and reduce cardiac strain.

Long-term studies show that patients who undergo bariatric surgery experience a marked reduction in the incidence of heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular-related mortality compared to obese individuals managed without surgery. Improved physical fitness and increased activity levels following weight loss further enhance cardiovascular resilience.

Patients undergo thorough cardiovascular evaluation before surgery to assess risk and optimize heart health. Post-operative follow-up includes continued monitoring of blood pressure, lipid levels, and cardiac symptoms. Lifestyle modification, nutritional guidance, and medical management remain essential components of care.
By reducing the burden of obesity-related risk factors, bariatric surgery serves as a preventive strategy that significantly lowers the likelihood of future coronary artery disease and improves long-term cardiovascular outcomes.