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Bariatric surgery for people who are severely obese

  

Severe obesity is a chronic condition that is difficult to treat through diet and exercise alone. Bariatric surgery is an option for people who are severely obese and cannot lose weight by traditional means or who suffer from serious obesity-related health problems. The operation promotes weight loss and reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes by restricting food intake and, in some operations, interrupting the digestive process to prevent the absorption of some calories and nutrients. Recent studies suggest that bariatric surgery may even have a favorable impact on mortality (death) rates in severely obese patients. The best results are achieved when bariatric surgery is followed with healthy eating behaviors and regular physical activity.

You may be a candidate for surgery if you are an adult with:

  • A body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more (about 100 pounds overweight for men and 80 pounds for women) or a BMI between 35 and 39.9 and a serious obesity-related health problem such as type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, or severe sleep apnea (when breathing stops for short periods during sleep).
  • Acceptable operative risks.
  • An ability to participate in treatment and long-term follow-up.
  • An understanding of the operation and the lifestyle changes you will need to make.


Source: Weight-control Information Network, Department of Health and Human Services


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Date Added: 2009-04-20 Views : 184