Bariatric or weight loss surgery is becoming more and more common: An estimated 228,000 procedures were done in the United States in 2017, up from 158,000 in 2011, according to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Obesity is a chronic disease, so weight-loss surgery is an option for those who haven't had success with other weight loss options.

You've probably known a friend or colleague who has had weight loss surgery. Maybe you've wondered if it could be right for you. Here are five things to consider before taking the next step:

1) Who qualifies for weight-loss surgery? It typically is for people who have a BMI of 40 or greater OR who have a BMI of 35 or greater and have a co-morbid condition, including Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and sleep apnea. (Here's a handy online BMI calculator, if you aren't sure what your BMI is.)

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2) Dieting rarely produces long-term weight loss for those who qualify for weight-loss surgery, according to the Putnam Hospital Center Bariatric Surgery Program. Instead, they often lose weight only to gain it back. Obesity can be related to genetics, emotional triggers, hormone problems, lack of sleep and can complicate efforts to exercise.

3) Obesity can cost you years. Those who qualify for weight-loss surgery and don't lose weight could be shortening their life expectancy. According to the National Institute of Health, those with BMI of 40-44 lost 6.6 years off their lives. Those with BMI of 55-59.0 lost 13.7 years off their lives.

4) Address obesity-related conditions. Weight-loss surgery patients often see not only rapid weight loss, but an improvement (or resolution!) of their obesity-related conditions. Morbidly obese patients saw, on average, a 29 percent reduction of their health care costs within five years of surgery, according to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Plus, many had more energy, increased mobility, increased self-esteem and reduced depression and anxiety.

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5) Weight-loss surgery isn't a quick fix. It's a long-term lifestyle change that, at the Putnam Hospital Center Bariatric Surgery Program, includes medically supervised nutrition counseling both before and after surgery, as well as working with physical therapists who customize plans for you. Research has shown patients are more successful if they regularly attend support groups, so Putnam Hospital Center Bariatric Surgery Program offers those, too.

Ready to learn more? The first step at Putnam Hospital Center Bariatric Surgery Program is to attend a seminar, either online or in person. Here are the details on the next seminar:

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Please call 845-230-4797 to register and to answer a few questions to determine eligibility. TTY/Accessibility: 800-421-1220.

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