What is one of the qualifications for undergoing bariatric surgery?

One of the key qualifications for undergoing bariatric surgery is having a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than 35 in conjunction with comorbidities. This is due to the fact that bariatric surgery is primarily intended for individuals who have not only obesity but also related health issues that could significantly improve with weight loss. Comorbidities may include conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea which are exacerbated by obesity and can lead to serious health complications.

In contrast, a BMI greater than 30 is generally considered overweight rather than obese and may not meet the more stringent criteria for surgical intervention. Similarly, having a BMI greater than 25 does not qualify someone for surgery as this population may not necessarily experience the same health complications. Additionally, a BMI greater than 40 with no health issues does not meet the guideline that necessitates the presence of comorbidities, underscoring the importance of evaluating the overall health of patients rather than just their weight.