Dr. Schmidt Provides Expert Commentary for News Program

Dr. Schmidt Provides Expert Commentary for News Program

Dr Schmidt on the news

Advanced Laparoscopic Associates are acknowledged experts in their field. That’s why My9 News turned to our own Dr. Hans Schmidt to provide context and commentary on recent medical research. The segment, which aired on December 20, 2019, had Dr. Schmidt explaining recent research that suggests an increase in obesity rates in the United States in the next decade.

The research, published in New England Journal of Medicine one day prior to the airing of the segment, suggests that given current trends, 29 states will have obesity rates over 50 percent in the next 10 years. No state will have an obesity rate of less than 35 percent. One in four people could be 100 or more pounds overweight.

“What’s the problem, Doc?” asks host Bill Spadea. “Is it all the processed foods, all the sugar, lack of exercise?”

“It’s absolutely all of the above,” Dr. Schmidt says. “Our society is very sedentary. There’s…a lot of processed food available and I don’t think we do a lot of exercise. The combination of all of that contributes.”

When asked about the credibility of the study, Dr. Schmidt points out that two-thirds of Americans are currently either overweight or obese. “Fifty percent in the next 10 years? That’s not alarmist, that’s reality,” he says.

For those who are obese, with a body mass index (BMI, which Dr. Schmidt says is currently the best measure of obesity) of more than 40, or more than 35 with an obesity-related disease such as type 2 diabetes or heart disease, bariatric surgery may be the best way to get—and stay—healthier.

If you are obese and want to make a change, request an appointment at Advanced Laparoscopic Associates. Our surgeons will describe your options and help you choose a bariatric procedure that will be effective for you and your unique situation.