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Do I Qualify for Weight Loss Surgery?

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Have you considered bariatric surgery? Undergoing surgical treatment for weight loss is a major decision and requires you meet a wide range of criteria to be considered. Here are some guidelines to help you determine if it is a good fit.

You may be eligible for surgery if you:

  • Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 – 39.9 with a significant weight-related health problem
  • Are 100 pounds or more overweight
  • Are over the age of 18
  • Experience health problems related to obesity, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and/or sleep apnea
  • Have previously tried a variety of means to lose weight

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Body Mass Indicator (BMI)

Calculate your Adult BMI, then refer to the Normal to Obese Range indicators below:

  • If your BMI is less than 18.5, it falls within the underweight range.
  • If your BMI is 18.5 to 24.9, it falls within the normal.
  • If your BMI is 25.0 to 29.9, it falls within the overweight range.
  • If your BMI is 30.0 or higher, it falls within the obese range.

Obesity is frequently subdivided into categories:

  • Class 1: BMI of 30 to 34.9
  • Class 2: BMI of 35 to 39.9
  • Class 3: BMI of 40 or higher. Class 3 obesity is sometimes categorized as “extreme” or “severe” obesity.

Source: Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion

Is weight loss surgery right for you?

You might consider it if you have tried everything but are still unable to lose weight and your weight is affecting your overall health and quality of life.

Today, many health insurance plans cover weight loss surgery. Contact your health insurance provider and ask about your coverage for bariatric surgery.

The most important and urgent step you can take to improve your overall health is significant weight loss. Obesity is associated with numerous health problems, including but not limited to, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol, sleep apnea and reflux disease.