March 4th – the only day that is also a sentence. Today we ask you to march forth and discover how bariatric surgery can change your life. The benefits go beyond losing weight:

  • Reduce high blood pressure
  • Improve obstructive sleep apnea
  • Defeat depression
  • Conquer joint pain
  • Achieve long-term remission for Type 2 diabetes

Recent research shows that weight-loss surgery can also lower the risk of COVID-19 hospitalization and intensive care needs. The procedure has become increasingly popular during the pandemic. Many people are moving forward recognizing that is a safe, proactive measure against severe COVID-19 infection.

A POWERFUL, PREVENTATIVE METHOD

According to the CDC, having obesity may triple the risk of hospitalization due to COVID-19. Obesity increases the risk for cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and diabetes, all of which can lead to poor outcomes after contracting the coronavirus.

Researchers believe that the increased risk for obese patients may stem in part from the way the coronavirus enters the body via an enzyme called the ACE2 receptor. Advisory Board explains, “This enzyme is located in cells that line the lung and fat tissue, which means that patients with excess weight may be more likely to experience a high viral load.” Obesity-related hyperinflammation and shortness of breath also make it difficult to combat the virus.

Understanding the research connecting obesity and the coronavirus, how does COVID-19 impact those who have had bariatric surgery?

Identifying individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 and also had prior history of weight-loss surgery, the Cleveland Clinic conducted a study to learn if hospitalization rates would vary compared to a control group. The latter consisted of individuals with a body mass index of 40 or higher who also tested positive with the virus. Only 18% of patients in the weight-loss surgery group required hospitalization compared to 42% in the control group. “In addition, 13% of patients in the control group required ICU admission, 7% required mechanical ventilation, and 2.4% died.” None of these occurred for those who had bariatric surgery.

The Cleveland Clinic confirmed, “Patients after bariatric surgery become significantly healthier and can fight the virus better.”

March forth today and learn how New York Bariatric Group can change your life.

CHANGE YOUR LIFE

When it’s tim