Obesity's Recognition as a Disease Points the Way to a Cure, says Dr. Feiz & Associates

LOS ANGELES, June 28, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The fact that the American Medical Association (AMA), the nation's most powerful medical body, has recognized obesity as a disease, and not just a serious risk factor for numerous conditions, carries enormous potential for individuals with serious weight problems. The decision has been roundly applauded by The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), the leading authority on weight loss surgery. Michael Feiz, MD, FACS, is one of the nation's finest specialists in the field of weight loss, and he sees the declaration as extremely welcome news. It means that the medical establishment is finally recognizing such procedures as gastric sleeve surgery to be serious, potentially life-saving operations that must be taken seriously by insurance companies and others.  With this news, as well such recent events as the Lap-Band surgery received by New Jersey governor Chris Christie, the AMA's decision may herald a new era in the treatment of obesity, not only as an illness, but perhaps the single most serious health threat facing us at this time.

The team at Dr. Feiz & Associates is understandably proud of their reputation as pioneers in the field of surgical weight loss solutions. Over the history of their practice, Dr. Feiz has treated countless patients with impeccable surgical skill. Indeed, his dedication and abilities are needed more than ever. Obesity remains one of the greatest public health and economic threats facing the U.S. In fact, statistics from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) illustrate that more than 72 million Americans suffer from obesity, while the ASMBS adds that approximately 24 million experience morbid obesity, a truly severe health threat.

Numerous studies show that obese individuals experience a 50 to 100% increased risk of premature death compared to individuals of a healthier weight. Despite this, "many private health insurers, employers and state health plans specifically exclude the treatment of obesity and severe obesity from their coverage policies," says ASMBS President Jamie Ponce, MD. Now, that situation may well change drastically for the better.

Recent reports show that the type of metabolic and bariatric surgeries performed by Dr. Feiz can make a powerful difference in the lives of obesity sufferers. Not only do the procedures often lead to significant weight loss, but they are also effective at treating related conditions like Type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, new laparoscopic techniques used by Dr. Feiz have led to even greater improvements in the success and safety of bariatric treatments.  As one of the most highly respected weight loss practitioners working today, Dr. Feiz has therefore been able to transform the lives of a growing number of former obesity suffers.

While the AMA's ruling will likely lead to access to improved treatment strategies for excessively overweight and obese individuals, it also serves to remove much of the social stigma attached to obesity. As someone who has developed strong working relationships with his patients, the possibility of ending that social stigma is deeply gratifying to Dr. Feiz. He and his entire team are hopeful that that the increasing understanding of the true nature of obesity may inspire many more of those suffering to seek out effective weight loss solutions. To learn more about Dr. Feiz' treatment methods and his experience, visit his website at www.drfeiz.com or call for a free consultation at 310-817-6911.

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SOURCE Dr. Feiz & Associates