LCHM Spring 2017 - 8
FEATURE BARIATRIC SURGERY a Viable Option for a Healthier Lifestyle BY PETER F. ROVITO, MD, FACS O besity is at almost epidemic proportions in this country. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimated that from 2011 to 2014, 36% of adults and 17% of youth suffered from obesity. Even more striking, nearly 70% of Americans are considered overweight. The World Health Organization (WHO), along with National and International medical and scientific societies, now recognize obesity as a chronic progressive disease resulting from multiple environmental and genetic factors. The disease of obesity is extremely costly not only in terms of economics, but also in terms of individual and societal health, longevity, and psychological well-being. Due to its progressive nature, obesity requires lifelong treatment and control. 8 Lehigh County Health & Medicine | SPRING SPRING 2017 2017
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