Abstract

Results indicated that patients with lower SES were more likely to initiate new chronic opioid use post-surgery compared to those with higher SES. Factors such as preoperative pain levels, psychiatric comorbidities, and opioid prescribing patterns were considered as potential confounders. These findings underscore the socioeconomic disparities in opioid use following gastric bypass surgery and highlight the need for targeted interventions to mitigate risks associated with new chronic opioid use in vulnerable populations. Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these disparities and develop effective strategies for pain management in patients undergoing bariatric surgery.