Studies show 42 percent of American adults — and 33 percent of Pennsylvanian adults — are obese.
Characterized by excessive body fat, morbid obesity increases your risk of developing a range of health problems.
Morbidly obese means you weigh 100 pounds or more than your ideal weight and experience one or more of the following obesity-related health conditions:
Morbid obesity also increases your risk of developing other health and medical problems such as:
Diseases and health problems associated with morbid obesity often lead to significant and permanent damage to one or more organ systems.
Although medical problems increase the risk of any major surgical procedure, including bariatric surgery, they also strengthen the need for weight loss. Significant medical problems require careful consideration, but do not necessarily rule out the possibility of surgery.
Your bariatric surgeon will discuss the risks and complications of weight loss surgery and help you decide if it's the best option for you.
If you're considering surgery, attend one of UPMC's free bariatric surgery information session to:
Or, check out our Bariatric Surgery Webcast: Taking the First Step Toward Improved Health.