More Heartening News About Bariatric Surgery
Weighing whether to undergo bariatric surgery isn’t easy. But for those who are significantly overweight, there’s another reason to consider this life-changing—and potentially lifesaving—surgery.
Backed by Science
Recent research published by the American Heart Association suggests bariatric surgery in people with known heart disease may lower the risk of adverse outcomes like heart attack, stroke and hospitalization for heart failure. The study in Canada revealed that participants with heart disease and severe obesity (a body mass index of 40 or higher) who underwent bariatric surgery had fewer major cardiovascular events than people with similar conditions who did not have the surgery. Fewer of them died, too.
Bariatric surgery isn’t right for everyone, but it can be a very successful option for many, especially with an experienced surgeon and comprehensive program behind you. Along with losing excess weight, bariatric surgery can also deliver other health benefits like reducing cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Alleviating joint pain, boosting energy levels and mood, decreasing cancer risks, and getting off a CPAP machine (due to sleep apnea) are other gains. These results are strongly backed by many years of research studies.
Gain More From Your Life
While deciding to have a conversation with a health care provider about something deeply personal like weight can be intimidating and emotionally charged, it can also be a critical step toward improved physical and mental wellness. “Being significantly overweight doesn’t mean you’re a failure,” said Jeremy Bushman, MD, board-certified bariatric surgeon with Grand Health Partners. (Dr. Bushman performs bariatric surgery at Holland Hospital.) “Obesity isn’t simply a matter of willpower or behavior. It’s a complex, metabolic disease tied to genetic, cultural, social and emotional factors.”
“Talking to your primary care doctor is a great first step,” he added.
Should you decide to explore bariatric surgery or a medically supervised weight-loss program, Holland Hospital Bariatric Services offers close-to-home access to these services in partnership with Grand Health Partners. To date, the bariatric team, led by Dr. Bushman and Randal Baker, MD, another board-certified bariatric physician with Grand Health Partners, has performed several surgeries at Holland Hospital. Currently, there are also more than 100 patients participating in the pre-surgical process.
As one of our patients, you can expect to spend significant time with a variety of providers who understand and are dedicated to treating obesity, including registered dietitians, exercise physiologists, behavioral therapists, medical doctors and bariatric surgeons. Their foremost goal? Helping you improve your health and gain more from life.
“Transforming people’s lives through weight loss is our focus,” Dr. Bushman said, “and because we are bariatric specialists, we have more weight-loss tools in our toolbox.”
If you’d like to learn more about bariatric surgery, we have answers to key questions, and can help you determine if you’re a good candidate. You can also sign up to view our comprehensive and free online seminar. Watch it any time and from anywhere!
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Jeremy C. Bushman, MD
Grand Health Partners, Bariatric Surgery
602 Michigan Ave, main entrance
Use parking lot 1
Holland MI 49423
(616) 344-1800