Referring survivors of endometrial cancer and complex atypical hyperplasia to bariatric specialists: a prospective cohort study.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe the acceptability of bariatric referrals when offered by gynecologic oncologists to women with a history of complex atypical hyperplasia or early-stage endometrial cancer and to detail compliance with referrals and weight loss attempts that are initiated 3 months after the referral. Obese women with complex atypical hyperplasia or early-stage endometrial cancer were approached for inclusion in this prospective cohort study. Those women who were not in the care of a bariatric specialist were offered a medical referral with or without a surgical referral. A survey was administered at inclusion and after 3 months. Of 121 women who were approached, 106 women were consented. Women reported that it was acceptable for their gynecologic oncologist to discuss weight loss (91.09%) and that a 10% loss of body weight would be beneficial (86.14%). Six women were already in the care of a bariatric specialist. Of the remaining 100 women, 43 accepted a referral: 35 of 100 medical and 8 of 66 surgical referrals that were offered. At 3 months, 17 women complied with a referral (16 medical and 1 surgical), and 59 women had initiated any weight loss attempt. On multivariate analysis, a higher initial weight (P = .0403), Charlson Comorbidity Index ≥5 (P = .0278), and shorter time from surgery to bariatric referral (P = .0338) predicted acceptance of a referral. Weight-loss counseling is well received by these women. After being offered bariatric referral, only 17% comply, but most women (59%) subsequently initiate a weight loss attempt. Referrals should be offered early in the course of cancer care to maximize acceptance.