Bariatric surgery services have officially been introduced at Dharumavantha Hospital, marking a major advancement in specialised healthcare in the Maldives. The launch was announced on X by Ibrahim Abdul Razzaq Haleem, CEO of the Malé City Group of Hospitals, who described it as one of the most significant developments in recent years and a key step in expanding access to advanced medical care.
Haleem praised President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s leadership, noting that progress in the health sector reflects the administration’s commitment to strengthening public healthcare and improving access to specialised treatments.
Bariatric surgery—an effective treatment for severe obesity—helps patients achieve long-term weight loss and reduces risks associated with non-communicable diseases, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol and heart disease. Haleem added that patients often experience improvements in mental well-being, quality of life and reduced reliance on long-term medication.
He noted that the Surgery Department carried out extensive preparations to establish the service, and acknowledged the contributions of surgeons, anaesthesiologists, nurses, clinical and technical staff, as well as administrative teams. He also thanked Dr Azna, identified as the first bariatric surgeon in Dhaka, for her support in launching the service.
Haleem said the introduction of bariatric surgery within the public healthcare system offers new hope to individuals affected by obesity-related conditions and represents a significant step forward for specialised medical services in the Maldives.