Cause of severe obesity
The cause of severe obesity is poorly understood and has many factors associated with it. In obese individuals, the set-point of stored energy is too high. This altered set-point may result from a low metabolism with low energy expenditure, sedentary lifestyle, excessive caloric intake, or a combination. There is some scientific data that suggests obesity may be an inherited characteristic. Obese individuals not only face medical consequences of their disease, but they live with discrimination and guilt every day. The emotional and physical tolls can be devastating. Contrary to popular belief, the cause of obesity is not a lack of will power, but a complex interplay between genetics, behavior and the environment. Health Consequences associated with obesity* - Adult Onset Diabetes
- High Blood Pressure
- Gallbladder Disease
- Elevated Cholesterol
- Urinary Incontinence (Leakage of urine when coughing or with activity)
- Acid Reflux
- Deep Vein Thrombosis
- Pulmonary Embolism (Bloodclots in lungs)
- Sleep Apnea (Breathing stops periodically during sleep)
- Coronary Artery Disease
- Heart Failure
- Loss of Fertility
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
- Breast, Colon and Endometrial Cancer
- Arthritis
- Back Pain
- Degenerative Joint Disease and Painful Joints
- Overall Decreased Life Expectancy
* Most of these "co-morbidities" improve drastically after weight reduction.
Options for weight loss
Numerous therapeutic approaches to this problem have been advocated, including low calorie diets, drugs, behavioral modifications and exercise therapy, but the only treatment proven to be effective in the long term management of morbid obesity is surgical intervention. Who is a candidate for weight loss surgery?
Individuals with the following: - BMI > 35 with an associated medical condition (high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea) or a BMI > 40. To figure your BMI click here.
- 18-65 years old (with some exceptions)
- Acceptable operative risks
- Failed attempts with diet plans, behavioral and medical therapy
- Realistic expectations and a strong motivation to become healthier
- Capable of understanding the procedure and implications
- Commitment to prolonged life-style changes and long-term follow-up
- Psychologically prepared
Severe Obesity
Between three and five percent of the United States adult population is severely obese. The new National Institute of Health obesity guidelines propose that physicians use body mass index (BMI) to assess patients because the index is simple, applies to both men and women and takes into consideration both height and weight. Click here to figure out your BMI Getting Started
If you think you are a candidate for this type of surgery and want to get started with the preoperative procedures, contact us and to attend a free information seminar where you will receive a packet of information to start the process.
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