Kim Joyner, Bariatric Coordinator at our local medical center shares the following inportant information on heart disease and sleep apnea. Thanks, Kim. 

Approximately 85% of sleep apnea among bariatric patients is directly related to their morbid obesity.

However, approximately 15% is TRUE sleep apnea apart from morbid obesity.  If you have stopped using your C-PAP without re-evaluation, you could be part of the 15%.  Please plan to get re-tested ASAP.  It is a simple process that can be done in your own home. 

To those in the 85%, bariatric surgery has greatly reduced your risk factors for cardiac disease.  CONGRATULATIONS.  This is one of the reasons we celebrate weight loss at support group meetings. 

February is HEART AWARENESS month. Our support meeting, February 1st, will focus on heart disease and obesity.  It will be thrilling to see from where you have come.  Also, we will have a special treat.  Karen Juma, RN, NHRMC Nurse Educator will demonstrate CPR, the Heimlich Maneuver, and other lifesaving tips at the close of our meeting.  I hope to see each of you in February as we celebrate Heart Awareness!  I am so proud of you guys.

For further information about sleep apnea, obesity, and heart disease, go to: http://consumer.healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=660713

submitted by: Kim  F. Joyner, Bariatric Coordinator