Accessibility Statement

We are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience. To do so, we are actively working with consultants to update the website by increasing its accessibility and usability by persons who use assistive technologies such as automated tools, keyboard-only navigation, and screen readers.

We are working to have the website conform to the relevant standards of the Section 508 Web Accessibility Standards developed by the United States Access Board, as well as the World Wide Web Consortium's (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1. These standards and guidelines explain how to make web content more accessible for people with disabilities. We believe that conformance with these standards and guidelines will help make the website more user friendly for all people.

Our efforts are ongoing. While we strive to have the website adhere to these guidelines and standards, it is not always possible to do so in all areas of the website. If, at any time, you have specific questions or concerns about the accessibility of any particular webpage, please contact WebsiteAccess@tenethealth.com so that we may be of assistance.

Thank you. We hope you enjoy using our website.

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Understanding Obesity

Obesity is a complicated health issue that results from a combination of multiple factors, including genetics, environment, cultural beliefs and traditions, and psychological causes.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, obesity affected 93.3 million U.S. adults in 2015 – 2016. Obese individuals are also at risk for many other serious diseases and health conditions, including but not limited to:
  • High Blood Pressure
  • High Cholesterol
  • Diabetes
  • Coronary Heart Disease
  • Sleep Apnea
  • Clinical Depression and Anxiety

While an individual’s diet is a piece of the puzzle, many times prolonged weight loss is rarely reached, if ever, by diet alone.

Click here to find out more about Body Mass Index (BMI) and to find out if you are a candidate for bariatric surgery.


Weight loss surgery is generally designed for those with a body mass index (BMI) equal to or greater than 40, or equal to or greater than 35 with serious co-morbidities. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding with the Lap Band® is also FDA-approved for weight loss surgery in people with a BMI of 30 to 35 who have at least one obesity-related condition. Weight loss surgery is considered safe, but like many types of surgery, it does have risks. Consult with your physician about the risks and benefits of weight loss surgery.

Are you a Candidate?

Find out if weight loss surgery is right for you.
Take weight loss surgery assessment

Find a Bariatric Surgeon

Fill out a contact form and we'll call you to refer a doctor.
Request a Bariatric Surgeon Referral

More Information

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Watch Out for Gallstones and Five Other Abdominal Emergencies

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When Is it Time to Have Weight Loss Surgery?

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Steps for Making Weight Loss Surgery Affordable

Bariatric Surgery Services

Find A Bariatric Surgeon
Bariatric Classes & Events
Sleeve Gastrectomy
Lap-Band Surgery
Gastric Bypass
Bariatric Facts
Bariatric Team
Bariatric Patient Navigator
Bariatric Program
BMI Calculator
Bariatric Stories
Bariatric Healthy Living