High Blood Pressure/Heart Disease

How does excess body weight increase the risk of heart disease

Excess body weight keeps the heart from working properly. The result can be high blood pressure (hypertension), which can cause strokes and can cause heart and kidney damage. Evidence shows that the age-related lifetime risk of hypertension in men and women ages 45 to 54 will double as their average BMI increases from 25 to 35.7

How are high blood pressure and heart disease affected by weight loss surgery?

Weight loss surgery reduces excess body weight over time, which takes away some of the strain on the heart. Changes in diet and exercise after surgery can lead to significant improvement of hypertension and other cardiovascular problems. Studies have shown reductions in total cholesterol and LDL levels and increased HDL levels.

What success have patients with heart disease found through weight loss surgery?

A recent meta-analysis showed hypertension was resolved or improved in 78.5 percent of patients. A study of 500 patients showed 92 percent resolution of hypertension. If you have high blood pressure, or any other co-morbidities related to excess weight, visit our qualification page to see if weight loss surgery may be right for you.