JFK for Life has released their Support Group Newsletter for September 2013.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
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(Downloads are in PDF format. The free Acrobat Reader can be downloaded here.)
Stronger Emphasis on Diabetes; Sleeve Gastrectomy Gets Nod
In a major shift in policy, three major medical societies have changed their formal guidelines for bariatric surgery and expanded eligibility to include patients with mild to moderate obesity and diabetes or metabolic syndrome.
Additionally, the societies—the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and the Obesity Society—upgraded sleeve gastrectomy from investigational status to a “proven surgical option.”
The changes will bring the U.S. guidelines in line with practices increasingly used around the country and reflect evidence that has emerged in the four years since the previous guideline was developed. Read more
The American Medical Association has officially recognized obesity as a disease, a decision that could persuade physicians to pay more attention to the condition and encourage more insurers to pay for obesity-related treatments.
“Acknowledging obesity as a disease will help reshape the way the medical community approaches this complex issue that affects approximately one in three Americans,” Dr. Alexander Abkin, a board-certified bariatric surgeon, said in a statement. He suggested the new definition would help in the fight against Type 2 diabetes and heart disease, which are linked to obesity. Read more
Unfortunately, and the woes of many, diabetes and obesity go hand in hand. According to researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, artificial sweeteners are related to enhanced blood insulin and glucose response.
Although the findings reveal that the elevated insulin response shows patients are able to make enough insulin to deal with spiking glucose levels, it also shows that patients are secreting more insulin and if they can become resistant to its effects it could lead to type 2 diabetes. Read more
Gov. Chris Christie — whose weight has long been the subject of public worry and late-night talk show jokes — secretly underwent lap-band stomach surgery in February in an effort to shed pounds, his office confirmed today. Read more
But not everyone agrees it’s time to recommend the procedure to those who aren’t extremely obese.
The Lap-Band weight-loss procedure should not be restricted only to patients who are very severely obese, a new study suggests. Read more
Mortality and morbidity from bariatric surgery are less common at hospitals with high case volumes, according to data presented at the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons Annual Meeting in Baltimore. Read more
We all know that weight-loss surgery can shrink your waistline – but a new study shows it can cause surprising changes in your genes, too.
According to a study in the journal Cell Press, people who underwent gastric bypass surgery and lost weight, experienced changes in gene expression, which improved their body’s ability to burn fat and store sugars properly, decreasing their risk for diabetes.
Researchers, Expecting a Halt in Progression After Bariatric Surgery, Instead See Remission
New Jersey —Bariatric surgery induces a significant and lasting improvement in diabetic nephropathy, with nearly 60% of patients with this condition achieving remission five years after surgery, according to a study presented at the 2012 annual meeting of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.
The investigators say that the finding demonstrates a previously unknown microvascular effect of bariatric surgery. Read more
Dr. Abkin, in conjunction with JFK for LIFE, has released their monthly JFK For Life Support Group Newsletter for December.
Inside This Issue:
“I have been a patient of Dr. Abkin for over 3 years, since 2020. I’ve lost 85 pounds and will be forever grateful for this life changing experience. Every staff member genuinely cares in the ease and success of your journey. They leave no stone unturned. Dr. Abkin is a master at his craft and truly makes you feel comfortable with process. I’ve never felt more confident in my own skin! I will continue to refer anyone struggling with weight loss and health issues to his office. It’s a second chance at a new life!”
“Dr. Abkin’s expertise in performing my gastric sleeve surgery in 2022 was truly remarkable. From our first consultation to post-op follow-ups, he demonstrated genuine care and professionalism. The procedure went flawlessly, and I felt well-informed and confident throughout. Thanks to Dr. Abkin’s skill and guidance, I’ve achieved significant weight loss and improved health. Grateful for his exceptional care on this transformative journey.”
“After undergoing gastric sleeve surgery, I am amazed by the positive impact it has had on my life. The procedure was smooth, and the medical team was extremely supportive throughout the process. I’ve experienced significant weight loss and newfound energy. My confidence has soared, and I’m enjoying a healthier lifestyle. Grateful for this life-changing surgery.”
“Today, at the age of 45, I can confidently say that I am in the best shape of my life. I feel great, and my depression is a thing of the past. I have found purpose once again. And now, I am eager to share my story with all of you. Dr. Abkin and Dr. Jawed, you have saved my life! You have given my wife her husband back, and my children have their father again!”
“Enormously thankful to Dr. Abkin for changing my life! Lost over 150 lbs after having sleeve surgery in 2019. His expertise and support made my transformation possible. Forever grateful!”
“Dr. Abkin was so friendly and explained each procedure thoroughly. I never felt forced or not heard, which really made me feel very comfortable with going forward with the surgery. Well a year later and I’m reflux free and still losing weight and extremely happy with all my services from him and his staff! I have referred him several times to my friends and co workers and will keep referring him!”