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. B. 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.
Bariatric Surgery
For some patients, even the most effective medically managed programs aren’t enough. For these morbidly obese patients with a BMI of 40 or more, weight loss surgery is an option. Dr. R. Maillefer is a board certified general surgeon with advanced training in bariatric open gastric bypass surgery and laparoscopic techniques. His program follows the guidelines of the American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Bariatric surgery service requires a significant commitment on the part of patients. All of Dr. Maillefer’s bariatric surgery patients undergo a thorough medical and psychological evaluation to determine medical appropriateness and the patient’s ability to comply with the rigorous follow-up care and lifetime lifestyle changes that accompany bariatric surgery. Insurance coverage for bariatric surgery varies. Increasingly, plans will cover bariatric surgery if prior attempts at medically managed programs have not been successful. For more information about bariatric surgical options contact your primary care physician or Dr. Maillefer at (815) 758-8671, Ext. 4550.
