Question:
Help..family history!!!

I'm 5'8" tall and weigh between 241-250 on any given day which puts my bmi at around 38.1. I have lost my gall bladder, have sore knees and weak ankles, back pain, shortness of breath, thyroid disease and low energy. I don't have serious co-morbidities but last year my father passed away..he waws overweight, had high blood pressure, diabetes and heart problems. Do you think this will be enough to qualify me for surgery???    — Daniela W. (posted on August 23, 2003)

August 23, 2003
Absolutely! My husband had a BMI of 38.5 . Our insurance only covered surgery for those with a BMI of 40 or greater. He was denied at first, but we appealed. We sited the fact that my husband has elevated insulin levels (insulin resistance) and was on medication for that, and there was a strong family history of diabetes on both his mother and father's sides of the family. Also, my husband's dad weighed over 400lbs at one time (had the old small bowel bypass many years ago), and he has a morbidly obese sister and and overweight brother. He also had high blood pressure being treated with two medications. We threw in the back and leg pain that limited his ability to walk for exercise. Not only was the denial reversed, but the criteria now has been changed for those with a BMI between 35-40 with co-morbidities "and so forth" to qualify for surgery.
   — koogy

August 23, 2003
I personally think your joint problems and shortness of breath qualify as comorbidities, the family history will certainly help.
   — bethybb

August 25, 2003
My BMI is lower than yours but I have documented blood sugar and blood pressure issues, and a family history of dying young from a combination of overweight and cardiovascular crises. You will need to document document document! This will take time but your medical team will help you, particularly your Primary Care Physician. Good luck!
   — Deborah M.

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