WASHINGTON, Oct 11, 2004 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- A U.S. report on obesity finds surgery for extremely obese patients who have failed to lose weight with exercise and diet may be a good option.

The report is a scientific evidence review released Monday by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality of the Department of Health and Human Services. It says surgery to correct obesity may also diminish obesity related health problems, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

The report found data suggesting weight-loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, may be more effective than drugs for people whose obesity is extreme or nearly extreme.

The report also concluded some prescription medicines, particularly orlistat and sibutramine, promote moderate weight loss when prescribed along with recommendations for dieting.

Although the amount of weight loss directly attributable to the drugs averages less than 11 pounds, research shows even such a modest weight loss may decrease the occurrence of diabetes.

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