Vibrating capsule: New hope emerges for global obesity treatment

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NEW YORK, Jan 3: As of 2020, nearly 38% of the global population is grappling with obesity or overweight, a figure expected to surge to 42% by 2025. Obesity, a known risk factor for various health issues, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, and depression, has prompted the search for effective, noninvasive treatments.

Harvard University’s Assistant Professor of Bioengineering, Dr. Shriya Srinivasan, leads a study introducing an ingestible capsule designed to leverage the body’s natural signaling mechanisms. The capsule, about the size of a multivitamin and powered by a small silver oxide battery, is swallowed 20 minutes before a meal. Once in the stomach, it vibrates and activates stretch receptors, signaling a sense of fullness and reducing hunger.

In an interview, Dr. Srinivasan highlighted the significance of noninvasive approaches, emphasizing the limitations and risks associated with traditional interventions like invasive surgeries. The vibrating capsule, relying on mechano-stimulation, presents a new modality with potentially increased efficacy, scalability, and reduced costs, making it accessible globally.

The study, conducted on animal models, demonstrated impressive effectiveness in reducing food intake and slowing weight gain. Dr. Srinivasan expressed optimism about transforming obesity care, particularly in global health settings where sophisticated and expensive options might be limited.

Despite the promising results, some experts raise concerns. Dr. Mir Ali, a bariatric surgeon, acknowledges the noninvasive concept’s interest but cautions about potential hurdles, such as the presence of batteries. While batteries in the gastrointestinal tract can pose risks, researchers emphasize the cost-effectiveness and transformative potential of the vibrating capsule in addressing global obesity challenges.

The new device offers hope for those seeking alternatives to traditional obesity treatments, especially considering the apprehension and barriers surrounding weight loss surgeries. As researchers continue to refine this noninvasive approach, it could potentially revolutionize obesity therapy on a global scale.

This news has been read 721 times!