Are You A Candidate For Lap Band Surgery In Arizona?

According to the Trust for Americas Health, 24.8% of Arizonas adults are obese

. This rate has risen significantly in just the last two years. Arizona, like many other states, has started to respond with efforts including healthier school lunches and mandating displays of nutritional information on vending machines. Because so many health problems (and healthcare costs) can arise from obesity, many people in Arizona and throughout the country are considering laparoscopic gastric band, such as Lap Band surgery. For these people, there a few key steps to take to determine if they are candidates for this procedure.

The first indicator that one is eligible for Lap Band surgery is a body mass index (BMI) greater than 40. BMI is used to determine whether or not an individuals body weight is at a healthy level based on his or her height. The reason a BMI of 40 is set as the minimum is because it tends to signify an extremely high level of health risk. For example, a man who is 6 feet tall and weighs 300 pounds would have a BMI of 40.7, designating him as being morbidly obese and qualified for weight loss surgery. Many BMI calculators are available online.

Another factor which could make one a surgical candidate is the presence of comorbidities in addition to obesity. A comorbidity is a secondary ailment related to a primary health condition. In regards to obesity, some common comorbidities include high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol and sleep apnea. In some cases, for instance, someone with a BMI of 35 with type 2 diabetes may be eligible for lap band surgery.

The best way for an interested person to be certain of his or her eligibility is to attend an informational seminar with a bariatric surgeon. At this seminar, the surgeon will explain all surgical side effects, recovery instructions and any measures that are required of the patient prior to surgery (one may have to lose a certain amount of weight before undergoing the procedure). Additionally, information regarding the cost of the procedure and insurance coverage are discussed.

The Lap Band procedure is a powerful tool for surgeons in fighting adult obesity in Arizona and across the United States. The most powerful tool for those struggling with obesity is information; they must know how to obtain a healthier weight and be aware of the options available to them. If they begin asking the right questions as soon as possible, the experts can lead them to living healthier, fuller lives.

by: Terry Simpson

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