Baylor Regional Medical Center at Plano

More than 500,000 Americans die prematurely each year from obesity-related complications, and it is one of the leading causes of preventable death. According to the National Cancer Institute, obesity increases the risk of breast, colon and kidney cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight and taking steps to lose weight can help you decrease your risk of developing these cancers.  

If you want to make changes to your lifestyle and improve your weight, you are not alone. Almost two-thirds of adults in the United States are overweight or obese. Whether the extra pounds are a result of genetics, metabolism or lifestyle, your health is at risk.

When you’re overweight, you’re more likely to experience other health problems such as:

• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Osteoarthritis
• High blood pressure
• Acid reflux disease
• Sleep apnea
• Depression
• Problems with skin, urination or menstruation
• Increased risk for certain types of cancer

Despite the health risks of carrying extra weight, it can be very difficult to lose weight. If you have experienced unsuccessful attempts at weight loss in the past and have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or more, you may be a candidate for weight loss surgery.  BMI is the standard health care professionals use to determine whether a person is overweight or obese.

Are you a candidate for weight loss surgery?
Learn more about your weight loss options at Baylor Plano.