By Jason Arellano, MD
Obesity is a chronic disease that is affecting many people all over the world and here in the United States. The prevalence of obesity increased from 30.5% in 1999-2000 to 41.9% in 2017–March 2020. Therefore, two out of five adults are considered to be obese.
Obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of greater than 30. BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared. An easier way to figure out your BMI is to input your measurements into an online BMI calculator.
Knowing your BMI is important because the higher the number, the more likely you may develop medical problems in the future. For example, many people who are obese develop chronic medical conditions such as high blood pressure, trouble breathing, and diabetes. There are many more chronic medical diseases that people suffer from as a result of their obesity.
With this information, the next step would be to speak with your primary care doctor. Based on your medical history, you may be eligible for anti-obesity medication. The weight loss from these types of medications can improve some of your medical conditions.
For people who were not successful with anti-obesity medications or those with a BMI of greater than 35, they may be candidates for weight loss or bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery has been around a lot longer than the anti-obesity medications and tends to provide better and more durable weight loss.
Bariatric surgery is a lot safer these days. It is performed through small incisions with minimally invasive techniques. This means less pain, a faster recovery, and allows one to get back to their life a lot quicker.
People who have bariatric surgery experience a dramatic change in their lives. They tend to look and feel different. They weigh less so they tend to have more energy. Because of the dramatic weight loss, a lot of their medical conditions improve and sometimes go away completely.
The bariatric dietician and I work together as a team and assist you along your weight loss journey. I will be monitoring you on a regular basis after surgery and will make sure you are progressing appropriately. You will also be working closely with our dedicated dietician. In addition to individual appointments, our dietician also sponsors support group sessions where pre and post bariatric patients can meet and discuss topics regarding health and nutrition.
If you are interested in learning more about you weight loss options, please give my office a call or come by and attend one of our informational seminars.
To make an appointment with Dr. Arellano, call 386.425-6480.
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