Elst

Researchers are studying the long-term effects of obesity treatments on women's health, focusing on nutrition, muscle and bone health, reproductive health, pregnancy outcomes, and child development. This observational study follows women aged 18 to 55 who are undergoing surgical or pharmacological obesity treatments, including those who become pregnant during the study. The study also includes a birth cohort to assess transgenerational health effects. Participants are receiving either bariatric surgery (RYGB, OAGB, or SG) or anti-obesity medications as part of their routine care. Follow-up visits occur from 6 weeks before treatment, then at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and annually up to 10 years after treatment. During these visits, participants complete questionnaires on lifestyle, gastrointestinal and reproductive health, mental health, and dietary intake using food frequency questionnaires and recall methods via an app. They provide blood, urine, feces, and, if pregnant, human milk samples. Body measurements, body composition analysis, muscle strength, and balance tests are performed, with additional imaging (DEXA, MRI) and physical activity monitoring in some participants. Women who become pregnant during follow-up or pregnant women with prior obesity treatment join the birth cohort, with assessments each trimester and postpartum up to 4 years. Researchers monitor outcomes including body composition, muscle strength, bone density, dietary intake, nutrient status, fetal growth, and neonatal measures. Assessments occur at multiple time points from baseline through 10 years post-treatment or post-partum, ensuring comprehensive long-term monitoring of health and development.