If weight loss is something that you have struggled with, Dr. Paul Kemmeter, Medical Director of the Bariatric Surgery Program for Mercy Health Saint Mary's, sat down with our Todd Chance to help sort out options.
Dr. Kemmeter pointed out that it's not just about "weight". Obesity can lead to other , very serious health conditions along with affecting overall quality of life. So exactly what is weight-loss surgery? It's important to understands that weight-loss surgery is merely one tool in the toolbox to losing weight and staying healthy – it's not a cure. Even after surgery, a healthy diet and exercise are still vital elements of your overall health. At Mercy Health Saint Mary's, they offer different types of weight-loss surgeries and consult with each patient about what type of surgery may be most beneficial. As for who is a good candidate, you must have a body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 35 with one or more significant obesity-related conditions including:
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
- Family history of early coronary heart disease
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Sleep apnea
- Have not been successful with medical weight loss
Weight-loss surgery can improve or may resolve over 30 obesity-related conditions including:
- Type II diabetes
- Heart disease
- Sleep apnea
- Hypertension
- High cholesterol
Along with weight loss comes improved mobility, self-image and self-esteem. The ultimate goal of a successful weight loss surgery is to live better, healthier and longer.
As some of you may be aware, Big Drew, afternoon co-host from ESPN 96.1's sports radio program, began his weight loss journey with Mercy Health last December through a free online seminar. Drew was morbidly obese and wanted to be healthier for his young son. In May he had surgery and not only has he lost more than 190 pounds – he's starting to do things he's never attempted before.
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Here is an overview, looking at two Years after Bariatric Surgery:
· 51% of patients are off cholesterol medications
· 54% of patients are off hypertension medications
· 58% of patients are off sleep apnea medications
· 67% of patients are off diabetes medications
If you would like to check out a free weight-loss seminar, go to www.MercyHealth.com/bariatrics
