With the increasing incidence of obesity in our country, the rate of
obesity seen in organ transplant candidates is also rising. Accurate
descriptions and measures of weight and degree of obesity vary between organ
systems. Weight loss can be achieved in some patients while they wait for the
transplant surgery. Weight reduction in transplant candidates involves a team
approach, with a program of education and support, including medical nutrition
therapy, physical therapy, and psychological support. The safety and
applicability of weight loss medications to assist with pretransplant weight
loss is also not well understood. It is not yet well known if weight loss
before transplantation will improve posttransplant outcomes. Many questions
regarding the treatment of obesity in transplant candidates remain
unanswered.
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