About Our Program |
About the Procedure |
Are You a Candidate? |
FAQs |
Obesity-related Health Risks |
Our Physicians |
Patient Education |
Preparation |
Procedure |
Recovery |
Support Groups and Resources |
Understanding Obesity
Like hypertension or diabetes, obesity is influenced by genetic, metabolic and environmental factors. UT Southwestern ascribes to guidelines developed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other research institutions that indicate a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30 defines obesity, while a BMI greater than 40 represents severe or morbid obesity. A BMI greater than 50 is frequently accompanied by multiple medical complications, and our specialists offer effective procedures to treat patients with these conditions.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 30 percent of adults in the U.S. or more than 60 million individuals are obese, and about 65 percent are overweight or obese.
Research at UT Southwestern Medical Center and other institutions have indicated that several factors contribute to the likelihood of becoming overweight or obese, including:
- Behavioral factors
- A person’s individual characteristics, environment, cultural attitudes and financial condition
- Genetics, which play a role in how a person’s body utilizes or burns calories and how the body stores fat
Along with a healthy diet, exercise is an important factor in controlling weight. Because people tend to consume more calories than are needed for everyday activities, exercise plays an important role in burning off calories and preventing excess weight gain.
For individuals who want to lose a significant amount of weight, researchers and nutritional experts recommend consulting a physician before beginning a weight loss program. In addition to maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise regimen, weight-loss surgery may be a valuable solution to not only reducing weight, but reversing or eliminating obesity-related health risks.
