Non-Surgical Weight Loss
Bariatrics/Obesity
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has labeled obesity as a "killer disease." According to the NIH, an increase in 20 percent or more above your "ideal body weight" is the point at which excess weight becomes a health risk. Today, 97 million Americans, more than one-third of the adult population, are overweight or obese. An estimated 5 to 10 million of those are considered morbidly obese. Unfortunately, there is also an alarming increase in the number of overweight children and adolescents.
However, those who are morbidly obese (generally 100 pounds or more over ideal body weight or having a BMI (Body Mass Index) of greater than 40, being overweight can cause a number of health care problems and an increased risk for a shorter life expectancy. Obesity-related health conditions include:
- Type II Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease and elevated cholesterol
- Back or joint problems including arthritis of weight bearing joints
- Sleep apnea and other breathing problems
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GRD) and heartburn
- Gallbladder disorders
- Depression
- Infertility
- Lipid metabolism problems
- Circulation problems including stroke or pulmonary embolism
- Skin breakdown
- Swollen legs and skin ulcers
- Urinary stress incontinence
- Menstrual irregularities
- Cancer
Even a weight reduction of 10 percent can significantly reduce an individual's health risk. A medically managed program is important for these patients to significantly reduce their weight while managing related health concerns in a holistic and safe manner.
Bariatric Medicine
Dr. Bhagavatlal Morker is the only board certified bariatric medicine physician in the greater DeKalb county area. A fellow of the American Society of Bariatric Physicians, Dr. Morker provides a comprehensive medically managed program for obese patients (with a BMI greater than 25) that includes an integrated approach utilizing multiple treatment options including periodic physician examinations, laboratory testing, prescription medications, dietary supplements, psychological assessments, behavior modification counseling, and nutrition counseling. Increasingly, health insurance plans recognize the health dangers of long standing obesity, and are providing benefits coverage for medically managed plans. Contact your DeKalb Clinic primary care physician or Dr. Morker for more information.
