The FDA has just lowered the body mass index (BMI) threshold for people considering gastric banding. The LAP-BAND procedure is now approved for people with a BMI between 30 and 40, which accounts for approximately 37 million Americans. Previously, the LAP-BAND was only approved for those with a BMI of 40 and over, and those with a BMI of 35 with at least one other serious obesity-related condition, such as heart disease, uncontrolled blood pressure and diabetes. The minimally-invasive procedure is used in people who are unable to lose weight, despite diet, exercise and diet drugs. Over the past 18 years, more than 650,000 LAP-BAND procedures have been performed. [via Medical News Today]
Thanks to RightHealth / Daily Dose
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