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Morbid Obesity
Morbid obesity, also referred to as clinically severe obesity or extreme obesity, is a chronic disease that afflicts approximately 9 million adult Americans. More than a matter of carrying extra weight, severe obesity (a BMI of over 40—see BMI Chart) is a chronic and debilitating disease, and this condition puts you at very high risk for a host of serious medical problems. Weight loss surgery can help in achieving long-term weight control for the morbidly obese, and can also be effective in eliminating or improving the co-morbidity factors associated with the disease.
Dangers of Obesity
- High blood Pressure
High blood pressure is twice as common in obese adults
- Type 2 Diabetes
More than 80% of people with Type 2 Diabetes are overweight.
- Heart Disease and Stroke
People who are overweight are more likely to suffer from high blood pressure, high levels of triglycerides (blood fats) and LDL cholesterol (a fat-like substance often called the "bad cholesterol"), and low levels of HDL cholesterol (the "good cholesterol").
- Cancer
Being overweight may increase the risk of developing several types of cancer, including cancers of the colon, esophagus, and kidney. Women who gain more than 20 pounds between the age of 18 and midlife have double the risk of developing breast cancer after menopause.
- Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a condition in which a person stops breathing for short periods during the night. The risk for sleep apnea is higher for people who are overweight. A person who is overweight may have more fat stored around his or her neck. This may make the airway smaller. A smaller airway can make breathing difficult, loud (snoring), or stop altogether.
- Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a common joint disorder. Extra weight may place extra pressure on joints and cartilage, causing them to wear away. Further, your risk of arthritis increases by 9-13% for every 2 pounds of weight that you gain.
- Liver Disease
People who have diabetes or "pre-diabetes" (when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet in the diabetic range) are more likely to have fatty liver disease than people without these conditions. And people who are overweight are more likely to have diabetes.
If you are ready to learn more about weight loss surgery, the Surgical Weight Loss Center is here to help you.
Register for a free weight loss surgery seminar today by calling 404-501-LOSE (5673) or click here.
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