The prevalence of obesity has risen dramatically over the past 20 years, and more people experience the health effects of obesity than any other disease.
Obesity is a complex medical condition in which excess body fat has accumulated to the extent that it may have an adverse effect on health. Obesity is typically defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater and is associated with the leading causes of death, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer. In addition to physical health issues, obesity also impacts mental and emotional health. If you’ve struggled to lose weight in the past, you know how frustrating and stressful the process can be.
“Often by the time patients get to my office they tried many times to lose weight and have spent years researching medical weight loss options,” said Zubin Bhesania, MD, bariatric surgeon and Medical Director of the Bariatric Center of Michigan at McLaren Port Huron. “Then something changes or develops in their life that drives them to take the next step. Maybe it’s a recent diabetes or hypertension diagnosis, or they can no longer do something they enjoy.”
The first step to getting long-lasting help is meeting with your primary care provider to discuss healthy lifestyles and explore weight loss options. In some cases, bariatric surgery might be the best option. In general, weight loss surgery is considered for those who haven’t been able to lose weight through diet and exercise. To qualify for coverage through most insurance plans, the person considering surgery would have a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher. BMI is a value derived from the mass and height of a person.
If you think seeing a bariatric specialist is your next step, register for an informational seminar with the Bariatric Center of Michigan at McLaren Port Huron. You’ll learn the basics about bariatric surgery, including what the qualifications are, what procedures are available, and what the benefits might be.
“Our seminars help frame up what bariatric surgery is, and how it can be a valuable, long-lasting solution for people who have struggled to maintain a healthy weight,” says Dr. Bhesania. “Registering for an online seminar is an easy way to determine if this is the right next step for you. With bariatric surgery, we can help people in their journey to lose weight and to realize a more active, healthy life.”
To learn more about the bariatric program or to register for a bariatric surgery informational seminar, click here.