Capital Surgeons Group

Obesity is a widespread issue in the United States, with alarming statistics:

• 1 in 3 adults (33%+) are classified as obese.
• 1 in 6 children and adolescents are affected by obesity.
• Obesity-related healthcare costs range between $147–210 billion annually.
• It is the second leading cause of preventable death after smoking, contributing to approximately 400,000 deaths annually.

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a key metric used to classify obesity:

• Normal BMI: 19–25
• Overweight: 25–30
• Class 1 Obesity: 30–35
• Class 2 Obesity: 35–40
• Class 3 (Morbid) Obesity: 40+
  Patients with a BMI over 35 who also have weight-related health conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension, are classified as having morbid obesity.

Obesity affects nearly every organ system and significantly increases the risk of chronic diseases. Below are the key health risks associated with obesity, along with their prevalence:

1. Chronic Conditions

• Type 2 Diabetes: Obesity is a leading cause of type 2 diabetes, with 95% of patients experiencing remission or significant improvement after weight loss surgery.
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Approximately 92% of patients see resolution or improvement in hypertension post-surgery.
• High Cholesterol: 97% of patients experience improved cholesterol levels after weight loss surgery.
• Fatty Liver Disease: Obesity is a major contributor to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which can progress to liver failure.
• Joint Problems: Excess weight places stress on joints, leading to conditions like osteoarthritis and chronic pain.
• Acid Reflux (GERD): Obesity increases the risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease, which can lead to esophageal damage.

2. Sleep Apnea
Obesity is a primary risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea, a condition that disrupts breathing during sleep. 75% of patients experience improvement or resolution of sleep apnea after weight loss surgery, often eliminating the need for CPAP machines.

3. Mental Health Issues
Obesity is linked to mental health challenges, including:

• Depression: The stigma and physical limitations associated with obesity can lead to depression.
• Stress Incontinence: Excess weight can weaken pelvic muscles, leading to urinary incontinence.

4. Women’s Health Concerns
Obesity disproportionately affects women’s health, leading to:

• Menstrual Irregularities: Hormonal imbalances can cause irregular cycles.
• Infertility: Obesity is a leading cause of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and infertility.
• Pregnancy Risks: Obese women face higher risks of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and C-sections.
• Cancer: Obesity increases the risk of endometrial cancer by 50% and breast cancer by 20–40%.

5. Reduced Life Expectancy
Obesity significantly shortens lifespan:

• A BMI over 40 reduces life expectancy by 7 years.
• A BMI over 55 can reduce life expectancy by 14 years.

Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, is a proven solution for individuals with severe obesity. It not only aids in weight loss but also improves or resolves many obesity-related conditions. Key benefits include:

1. Improved Health Outcomes

• Diabetes Remission: Up to 95% of patients see improvement or remission of type 2 diabetes.
• Hypertension Resolution: 92% of patients experience normalized blood pressure.
• Sleep Apnea Relief: 75% of patients report improvement or elimination of sleep apnea.
• Cancer Risk Reduction: Weight loss surgery lowers the risk of obesity-related cancers, such as endometrial and breast cancer.

2. Increased Life Expectancy
Studies show that weight loss surgery can add 7 to 14 years to a person’s life, depending on their initial BMI and overall health.

3. Long-Term Weight Loss Success

• Diet and Exercise Alone: Only 2–5% of individuals with a BMI over 40 can maintain significant weight loss without surgery.
• Bariatric Surgery: 80% of patients maintain significant weight loss after five years.

There are several surgical options available, each with its own benefits and considerations. The Capital Surgeons Group specializes in the following procedures:

1. Gastric Sleeve

• Procedure: A restrictive surgery that removes approximately 80% of the stomach.
• Weight Loss: Patients lose 60–70% of excess body weight within two years.
• Recovery: Typically outpatient or a one-night hospital stay.

2. Gastric Bypass

• Procedure: A restrictive and malabsorptive surgery that bypasses part of the stomach and small intestine.
• Weight Loss: Patients lose 70–80% of excess body weight within two years.
• Recovery: Outpatient or a one-night hospital stay.

3. Duodenal Switch

• Procedure: A combination of gastric sleeve and bypass, offering maximum weight loss.
• Weight Loss: Patients lose 70–90% of excess body weight within three years.
• Recovery: Typically requires 1–2 nights in the hospital.

Weight loss surgery requires a lifelong commitment to healthy habits:

• Diet: Gradual progression from liquids to solids, with a focus on protein intake and hydration.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining weight loss.
• Supplements: Daily multivitamins, iron, B12, and calcium are required to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
• Follow-Up: Regular check-ups at 2 weeks, 2 months, 6 months, 9 months, 12 months, and annually thereafter.

• Myth: Weight loss surgery is risky and ineffective.
  • Fact: The mortality rate is 0.2%, comparable to gallbladder or hip replacement surgery, and 80% of patients maintain long-term weight loss.
• Myth: Surgery is the “easy way out.”
  • Fact: Patients must commit to lifelong dietary and lifestyle changes.