Obesity is generally defined as being 30 percent over your ideal body weight.
The National Institutes of Health defines morbid obesity as being 100
pounds or more overweight and having a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than
or equal to 40.
While there are no known causes for chronic obesity, more than 300 genes
have been identified with an increased risk for obesity. This genetic
predisposition is evident in many extended families where siblings, parents
and children all face the same dieting struggles and deadly consequences.
Several life-threatening and debilitating diseases are associated with
obesity including diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, respiratory
complications and arthritis. The risks and severity of these conditions
are even greater for those who are morbidly obese.
Is This Really For Me?
The National Institute of Health (NIH) considers you a good candidate for surgery:
If you have tried and failed with dieting.
If your Body Mass Index (BMI) is 40 or greater.
If you have a BMI of 35 or greater and have serious health conditions associated
with your obesity, such as diabetes, hypertension, depression, heart disease,
sleep apnea.
If you are more than 100 lbs. over "ideal" weight.
*Adapted from NIH Consensus Development Conference Panel. Gastrointestinal
surgery for severe obesity. Ann Intern Med 1991; 115:956-61.
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