Kuwait tightens controls on weight loss surgery

Kuwait's Ministry of Health has implemented stricter controls on weight loss surgeries and procedures through Ministerial Decree No. 221/2026. The new regulations define the scope and standards for bariatric and metabolic surgeries, categorizing them into primary, reconstructive, and malabsorption procedures. It also governs non-surgical interventions such as endoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (ESG) and intragastric balloons (IGB).

The decree establishes clear criteria for primary bariatric surgery, recommending it for patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 35 kg/m² or higher. Individuals with a BMI between 30 and 34.9 kg/m² who have obesity-related comorbidities may also be considered. Non-surgical options are encouraged before surgical intervention. Approved primary surgical procedures include sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, and gastric banding.

While there is no upper age limit for surgery, the decision hinges on the patient's overall health. The decree permits bariatric surgery for select children and adolescents aged 12 to 17, provided they meet specific criteria, undergo a multidisciplinary team evaluation, and obtain parental consent. A minimum of two years of medical follow-up is required post-procedure.

Reconstructive surgeries are permitted for cases such as insufficient weight loss or regain after initial surgery, inadequate comorbidity improvement, or complications like severe GERD. These procedures require multidisciplinary team review and approval. Malabsorption surgery is prohibited as a primary procedure and is reserved for experienced surgeons. Non-surgical procedures like ESG and gastric balloons are regulated, with BMI criteria set for their use as primary or preliminary treatments.