Dr Bernie Hanna: Obesity Part 1
From Bahama islandsinfo
Obesity is a life threatening disease affecting 1 in 3 adults in the United States.
According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, 64 million adults in the US are obese (BMI 30 to 39.9). Another 15 million are morbidly obese (BMI >40).
In The Bahamas we are facing similar challenges. Seven out of Ten Bahamians are either overweight or obese. ‘Bahamas Ministry of Health’
As the minister of health once stated, this includes a significant number of the nation’s youth. The statistic has triggered concern because a number of chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs), such as diabetes, hypertension, chronic respiratory disease, strokes and heart disease, are by-products of obesity. 45% of deaths in 2003 were due to chronic non-communicable diseases.
Preliminary data from the Bahamas National Chronic Non-communicable Disease Survey, March 2006 showed that among 1,424 persons surveyed in 637 households in New Providence, Grand Bahama and Long Island:
21% had been diagnosed with high blood pressure
26% of those measured had elevated blood pressure
7% had been diagnosed with diabetes
12% had impaired and elevated fasting glucose on measurement (often used as an indicator for diabetes)
70% were overweight
8.8% were current smokers
64.5% described themselves as sedentary in leisure time
47% did not eat at least 1 fruit everyday
51% did not eat vegetables everyday
33% had “fast food” 2 or more times per week
Often times, chronic non-communicable diseases can be avoided through the adoption of healthy lifestyles. Far too many residents continue to make poor lifestyle choices that adversely affect their health and the health of their families. This more often than not translates into decreased quality of life and financial stress due to increased health burdens.
Obesity can lead to chronic health conditions that can increase the risk of life threatening illnesses such as:
THE METABOLIC SYNDROME
Metabolic syndrome is a combination of medical disorders that, when occurring together, increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Also known as Insulin resistance syndrome. The major risk factor is central obesity. CDC.gov
So how do we combat this obesity problem and change the direction that our nation is heading.
First of all “Rome wasn’t built in a day”. It takes time to put on weight. So have realistic expectations in losing it.
Set realistic goals.
5 Simple tips that can help:
Don’t skip meals
a. Skipping meals lead to snacking and overeating.
Cut portion sizes down to half.
a. Our eyes are usually bigger than our stomachs
Eat slowly by taking 10 minute breaks.
a. You will realize that you will get full on less.
Eliminate sodas and sweet drinks.
a. Everything should be sugar free
Just move
a. Do some sort of exercise. Walking is simple enough.
For those who have tried medical weight loss, diet and exercise, but just cannot succeed in losing the weight, you may be a candidate for weight loss surgery.
Go to my website weightlossbahamas.com for more information on Gastric Sleeve and band procedures.
Operating out of two ASMBS accredited Bariatric Centers of Excellence, Dr. Bernie Hanna, Director of Las Vegas Bariatrics, is a well-respected Las Vegas bariatric surgeon. Having practiced in the Las Vegas Valley since 2000, Dr. Hanna has strived to create a service-oriented environment focused on quality and commitment.
Dr. Hanna completed his bachelor of science degree at Barry University in Miami Florida finishing Manga Cum Laude. He graduated from Howard University Medical School and General Surgery residency program. He has completed numerous advanced laparoscopic and minimally invasive training programs to include Gastric Banding and Gastric Sleeve preceptorships.
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Part 2 of this article will be in tomorrow’s iNews Cayman
