Choosing Surgery
Obesity Facts
- Obesity is the second leading health-related cause of mortality world-wide. A body mass index > 40 is associated with a shortened life expectancy of 20 years in men and 5 years in women. Obesity is also linked to multiple severe diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, heart disease and cancer.
- This disease has become an epidemic in Canada over the last 20 years. The Public Health Agency of Canada estimates that 25% are now obese. These numbers are rising.
- Obesity is a disease. It is not a result of personal weakness or gluttony. Food addiction and the use of food as a coping mechanism can often contribute to dangerous weight gain. Healthy food choices and coping strategies are crucial elements for long-term success after weight loss surgery.
- Obesity surgery is an excellent tool for weight loss. Perhaps more importantly, it can reduce and eliminate obesity associated diseases (such as diabetes) and prolong life expectancy.
- All bariatric operations offered by Richmond Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery program is covered by MSP.