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Body Mass Index
Body mass index (BMI) is a number that is calculated based on an individual's height and weight.
Am I Obese?
A BMI between 18 and 25 is considered normal. A BMI over 25 suggests that the individual is overweight, while 30-39 indicates obesity. A BMI of 40+ suggests morbid obesity. To discover which category you fall into, calculate your BMI:
Do I qualify for surgery?
You are considered an ideal candidate for bariatric surgery if you meet any of the following criteria:
- BMI greater than or equal to 40
If you are at least 100 pounds above your ideal body weight as determined by standard life insurance tables or BMI 40 or higher.

- BMI greater than or equal to 35 with coexisting medical problems
If your BMI is 35 or greater AND you have been diagnosed with coexisting medical problems (comorbidities) related to your obesity.

- Serious attempts at weight reduction have failed
If you have failed after serious attempts at weight reduction such as a physician-prescribed diet, behavior modification, counseling with a dietitian, or enrollment in a group weight reduction program such as Weight Watchers, Nutri-Systems, or Overeaters Anonymous. Failure of unsupervised attempts at weight reduction on the part of prospective patients is not considered sufficient justification for the operation.
*Categories determined by the Panel on Energy, Obesity, and Body Weight Standards published by American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
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