Hello! My name is Andy Pollen and I am the marketing and public relations specialist at 
loss surgery? A lot, actually! I serve as the primary marketing contact for Clarian Bariatrics and help spread the word about our program and the wonderful people I have the pleasure of working with. While I have no medical background (other than seven years as a lifeguard) I bring an outsiders perspective to weight loss surgery and many of my posts will be based on conversations I have had with people in the community. On a personal note, I am a graduate of
I came across this article in the New York Times and found some very startling statistics that worth repeating. The first few paragraphs are below and the full text can be found by clicking the link.
While Congress searches for ways to slow the growth of health care spending, a new study suggests that its efforts may be overwhelmed by the surging prevalence of obesity.
The report, to be issued Tuesday, projects that if current trends continue 103 million American adults will be considered obese by 2018. That would be 43 percent of adults, compared to 31 percent in 2008, according to the research by Kenneth E. Thorpe of Emory University, an authority on the cost of treating chronic disease.
Mr. Thorpe concluded that the prevalence of obesity is growing faster than that of any other public health condition in the country’s history. Health care costs related to obesity — which is associated with conditions like hypertension and diabetes — would total $344 billion in 2018, or more than one in five dollars spent on health care, if the trends continue. If the obesity rate were held to its current level, the country would save nearly $200 billion a year by 2018, according to the study.
While Congress searches for ways to slow the growth of health care spending, a new study suggests that its efforts may be overwhelmed by the surging prevalence of obesity.
The report, to be issued Tuesday, projects that if current trends continue 103 million American adults will be considered obese by 2018. That would be 43 percent of adults, compared to 31 percent in 2008, according to the research by Kenneth E. Thorpe of Emory University, an authority on the cost of treating chronic disease.
Mr. Thorpe concluded that the prevalence of obesity is growing faster than that of any other public health condition in the country’s history. Health care costs related to obesity — which is associated with conditions like hypertension and diabetes — would total $344 billion in 2018, or more than one in five dollars spent on health care, if the trends continue. If the obesity rate were held to its current level, the country would save nearly $200 billion a year by 2018, according to the study.
Check out a recent article from the Indianapolis Star that features a few quotes by our very own Anessa!
Experts weigh in on growing trend toward use of supplements
Indianapolis Star - Indianapolis,IN,USA
... that fat burners work or if they are safe to take over a long period of time," said Annessa Chumbley, registered dietitian with Clarian Bariatrics. ...
Experts weigh in on growing trend toward use of supplements
Indianapolis Star - Indianapolis,IN,USA
... that fat burners work or if they are safe to take over a long period of time," said Annessa Chumbley, registered dietitian with Clarian Bariatrics. ...
Okay, this title immediately stuck out at me. After reading the article, I think the theory makes perfect sense. It's similar to the studies that prove talking to a fetus or listening to classical music can make a profound impact on learning later in life. What do you think? The first few paragraphs are below and full text can be found by clicking here.
When Kathy Perusse had weight-loss surgery and shed 120 pounds, she may have done more than make her own life easier.
She went on to have two daughters, and she may have boosted their chances of avoiding becoming obese, like her two older children are.
That's the implication of research suggesting that something in an obese woman's womb can program her fetus toward becoming a fat child and adult. It's not about simply passing along genes that promote obesity; it's some sort of still-mysterious signal.
The idea has only recently entered conversations between doctors and female patients, and scientists are scrambling to track down a biological explanation. That knowledge, in turn, may provide new ways to block obesity from crossing generations.
When Kathy Perusse had weight-loss surgery and shed 120 pounds, she may have done more than make her own life easier.
She went on to have two daughters, and she may have boosted their chances of avoiding becoming obese, like her two older children are.
That's the implication of research suggesting that something in an obese woman's womb can program her fetus toward becoming a fat child and adult. It's not about simply passing along genes that promote obesity; it's some sort of still-mysterious signal.
The idea has only recently entered conversations between doctors and female patients, and scientists are scrambling to track down a biological explanation. That knowledge, in turn, may provide new ways to block obesity from crossing generations.
In recognition of Veteran's Day today, I wanted to take a minute to thank all those individuals that have served selflessly in our Armed Forces. An extra special thank you goes out to our staff and patients who have served. We appreciate all you have done for us.
Remember to thank a veteran today!
Remember to thank a veteran today!
I don't think this article is really "breaking news" but it shows that serious implications that being overweight can have on your overall health.
Obese patients taking medications to lower their blood pressure and cholesterol levels are less likely to reach recommended targets for these cardiovascular disease risk factors than their normal weight counterparts, according to new research presented at the 2009 Canadian Cardiovascular Congress hosted by the Canadian Cardiovascular Society and the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.
Dr. Vineet Bhan, a resident at the University of Toronto, sought to determine whether there were differences in reaching guideline-recommended targets for blood pressure and cholesterol levels according to body mass index (BMI) in a large number of individuals deemed to be at high risk for heart disease and stroke.
"In Canada, these high risk patients frequently do not reach their blood pressure and cholesterol targets," says Dr. Bhan. "The goal of our study was to see if obesity could be a factor."
To learn more, click here.
Obese patients taking medications to lower their blood pressure and cholesterol levels are less likely to reach recommended targets for these cardiovascular disease risk factors than their normal weight counterparts, according to new research presented at the 2009 Canadian Cardiovascular Congress hosted by the Canadian Cardiovascular Society and the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.
Dr. Vineet Bhan, a resident at the University of Toronto, sought to determine whether there were differences in reaching guideline-recommended targets for blood pressure and cholesterol levels according to body mass index (BMI) in a large number of individuals deemed to be at high risk for heart disease and stroke.
"In Canada, these high risk patients frequently do not reach their blood pressure and cholesterol targets," says Dr. Bhan. "The goal of our study was to see if obesity could be a factor."
To learn more, click here.
If you have been anxious to learn more about how bariatric weight loss surgery can change your life, then join Clarian Bariatrics' Indianapolis surgeons and staff on Saturday, November 7 for a FREE informational seminar.
You, and your family and friends, are invited to learn more about the different types of weight loss surgery procedures (Gastric Bypass and Lap Band), learn about the insurance process and ask questions about the health risks caused by obesity.
The seminar is from 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. and we cannot wait to meet you! Learn more and RSVP, by clicking here!
You, and your family and friends, are invited to learn more about the different types of weight loss surgery procedures (Gastric Bypass and Lap Band), learn about the insurance process and ask questions about the health risks caused by obesity.
The seminar is from 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. and we cannot wait to meet you! Learn more and RSVP, by clicking here!
I wanted to share a quick write-up and photo that was posted in the Clarian North associate newsletter last week. As a non-Clarian Bariatrics employee, I can attest that the individuals I work with regularly are all top-notch and a complete joy to work with. I am so happy for them and the new location!
On the evening of October 28, more than 60 individuals attended the grand opening of the Clarian Bariatrics outpatient clinic on the northwest side. In late September, Clarian Bariatrics staff moved from their office in building 10 of Intech Park to a 30,000 square foot space in building 11, basically just across the parking lot!
The new space was a necessity as the program has experienced tremendous growth over the past three years and had consistently been running out of room for all their program offerings including cooking classes, support groups and fitness classes.
As Jon Goble, President & CEO of Clarian North, pointed out at the event, the bariatric service line was Clarian North's first service line when the hospital opened on December 1, 2005, and has been a great model of teamwork and dedication to the patient.
On the evening of October 28, more than 60 individuals attended the grand opening of the Clarian Bariatrics outpatient clinic on the northwest side. In late September, Clarian Bariatrics staff moved from their office in building 10 of Intech Park to a 30,000 square foot space in building 11, basically just across the parking lot!
The new space was a necessity as the program has experienced tremendous growth over the past three years and had consistently been running out of room for all their program offerings including cooking classes, support groups and fitness classes.
As Jon Goble, President & CEO of Clarian North, pointed out at the event, the bariatric service line was Clarian North's first service line when the hospital opened on December 1, 2005, and has been a great model of teamwork and dedication to the patient.
When I was a little kid, Halloween was always my favorite holiday, and honestly, it st
ill is! There is something about pumpkin carving, trick-or-treating (even though I don't do it anymore), haunted houses and spooky tales that still appeals to the kid in me.
Now that I have a neice and three nephews I love hearing their excitment about what to dress up as and how much candy they hope to gather. One thing I also appreciate is that my sister and brother tell their children that while it is okay to get candy, the smartest thing to do is pick out the five pieces they want the most and then share the rest with friends and family.
This way they feel rewarded for their efforts but they are not gorging on candy for the next several weeks at every free minute. What are your Halloween survival tips?
ill is! There is something about pumpkin carving, trick-or-treating (even though I don't do it anymore), haunted houses and spooky tales that still appeals to the kid in me. Now that I have a neice and three nephews I love hearing their excitment about what to dress up as and how much candy they hope to gather. One thing I also appreciate is that my sister and brother tell their children that while it is okay to get candy, the smartest thing to do is pick out the five pieces they want the most and then share the rest with friends and family.
This way they feel rewarded for their efforts but they are not gorging on candy for the next several weeks at every free minute. What are your Halloween survival tips?
One of the reasons why Clarian Bariatrics patients have such successful outcomes is that we have built a unique and interactive support program that includes cooking classes, fitness classes and support group. There is something for everyone! Learn more about our support programs at www.clarian.org/bariatrics.
Ever wonder what you can expect after bariatric weight loss surgery with Clarian Bariatrics? This video helps answer some of those questions!
Are you looking to gather more information on weight loss surgery? Have you wanted to ask questoins about bariatric surgery costs, types of weight loss surgery (including Lap Band and Gastric Bypass) and the Indiana insurance approval process?
Then consider joining us for a FREE informational weight loss seminar on Thursday October 29 at 6:30 pm in Cicero, Indiana at 1160 South Peru Street, State Road 19. You can register online at ACallToChange.org.
Also, feel free to bring as many of your friends and loved ones along to hear our Indianapolis-based bariatric surgeons discuss the process. See you there!
Then consider joining us for a FREE informational weight loss seminar on Thursday October 29 at 6:30 pm in Cicero, Indiana at 1160 South Peru Street, State Road 19. You can register online at ACallToChange.org.
Also, feel free to bring as many of your friends and loved ones along to hear our Indianapolis-based bariatric surgeons discuss the process. See you there!
Below is another popular educational video that we produced to help potential patients understand the risks and rewards of Indiana weight loss surgery. Remember, if you have additional questions, please call us at 317-275-7010 to sign up for a FREE weight loss surgery seminar.
It has been several months since I posted this video, but I have had some requests to re-run some of our "What to Expect" series. Look for a few this week and next, and remember to leave a comment if you have any questions about weight loss surgery procedures, bariatric surgery costs or Indianapolis surgeons.
I'm sure we are only beginning to hear more about this special coalition of manufacturers. Some of the companies involved include General Mills, Kellogg, PepsiCo and United Supermarkets.
What do you think about this? Does it show social consciousness on the part of these businesses or are they just being reactive to negative press? It doesn't mention that they will stop selling unhealthy snacks, just that they are committed to reducing obesity...seems a bit like a Catch 22 to me.
A group of retailers, food and beverage manufacturers and nongovernmental organizations has formed a coalition to combat obesity.
The coalition announced the formation of the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation Monday, with the goal of reducing obesity, especially childhood obesity, nationwide by 2015 by promoting ways to improve health in the marketplace, the workplace and schools.
The member companies and organizations – which include the Kellogg Co., PepsiCo, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and United Supermarkets – have set aside $20 million to promote programs encouraging healthy diet and physical activity among children aged 6 to 11, as well as their parents and caregivers.
What do you think about this? Does it show social consciousness on the part of these businesses or are they just being reactive to negative press? It doesn't mention that they will stop selling unhealthy snacks, just that they are committed to reducing obesity...seems a bit like a Catch 22 to me.
A group of retailers, food and beverage manufacturers and nongovernmental organizations has formed a coalition to combat obesity.
The coalition announced the formation of the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation Monday, with the goal of reducing obesity, especially childhood obesity, nationwide by 2015 by promoting ways to improve health in the marketplace, the workplace and schools.
The member companies and organizations – which include the Kellogg Co., PepsiCo, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and United Supermarkets – have set aside $20 million to promote programs encouraging healthy diet and physical activity among children aged 6 to 11, as well as their parents and caregivers.
I just saw this on Google News Alerts and thought it was interesting given all the recent press related to junk food and childhood obesity. Do you have school aged children? Do you think the school is now providing them with healthier options by taking away the "threat" or are they just going to get these snacks somewhere else?
A new government report finds that fewer U.S. high schools and middle schools are selling candy and salty snacks to students. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said its report was based on a survey of public schools in 34 states, comparing results from 2006 to 2008.
The study did not report the total number of schools that have changed. Instead, it looked at the proportion of schools in each state. The CDC found that the median proportion of high schools and middle schools that sell the sugary or salty snacks dropped from 54 percent to 36 percent.
The share of schools that sell soda and artificial fruit drinks dropped from 62 percent to 37 percent. The report marked a continued effort by health officials to combat childhood obesity.
A new government report finds that fewer U.S. high schools and middle schools are selling candy and salty snacks to students. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said its report was based on a survey of public schools in 34 states, comparing results from 2006 to 2008.
The study did not report the total number of schools that have changed. Instead, it looked at the proportion of schools in each state. The CDC found that the median proportion of high schools and middle schools that sell the sugary or salty snacks dropped from 54 percent to 36 percent.
The share of schools that sell soda and artificial fruit drinks dropped from 62 percent to 37 percent. The report marked a continued effort by health officials to combat childhood obesity.
Just a reminder that Clarian North will be hosting the Pumpkin Patch Festival on Saturday, October 10 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., in the north parking lot and Atrium of Clarian North Medical Center. This fun-filled, FREE family event is perfect for people of all ages! Click here for a flyer promoting the event.
Highlights include:
* Bounce house
* Police and fire emergency vehicles
* Petting zoo
* Family photos
* Face painting
* Caricatures
* Crafts
* LifeLine helicopter and ambulance
* Train rides
* Clowns
* Educational and interactive booths
* Live music and more!
New this year is a 5K run/walk through a partnership with the Carmel Lions Club. The 5K begins at 8:30 a.m. on the south side of the hospital. Please note that there will be a fee for the 5K. Those interested in participating are encouraged to visit the organization's Web site to learn more. Registration information and event details are also available on http://www.clariannorth.com/.
See you tomorrow!
Highlights include:
* Bounce house
* Police and fire emergency vehicles
* Petting zoo
* Family photos
* Face painting
* Caricatures
* Crafts
* LifeLine helicopter and ambulance
* Train rides
* Clowns
* Educational and interactive booths
* Live music and more!
New this year is a 5K run/walk through a partnership with the Carmel Lions Club. The 5K begins at 8:30 a.m. on the south side of the hospital. Please note that there will be a fee for the 5K. Those interested in participating are encouraged to visit the organization's Web site to learn more. Registration information and event details are also available on http://www.clariannorth.com/.
See you tomorrow!
Another article from the OAC's e-newsletter. It is rather shocking that obesity has so quickly become such a serious health issue. You can read full text of the article by clicking here.
Already up to one in twelve new cases of the disease are attributed to being overweight or obese and this proportion is set to increase as more quit smoking and stop hormone replacement therapy.
Dr Andrew Renehan, a cancer expert at the University of Manchester, told a medical conference: "Obesity is catching up at a rate that makes it possible it could become the biggest attributable cause of cancer in women within the next decade."
Last year, the number of cancer cases in Europe linked to weight jumped to at least 124,050, almost double the number in 2002.
Already up to one in twelve new cases of the disease are attributed to being overweight or obese and this proportion is set to increase as more quit smoking and stop hormone replacement therapy.
Dr Andrew Renehan, a cancer expert at the University of Manchester, told a medical conference: "Obesity is catching up at a rate that makes it possible it could become the biggest attributable cause of cancer in women within the next decade."
Last year, the number of cancer cases in Europe linked to weight jumped to at least 124,050, almost double the number in 2002.
I read this article in the recent edition of the Obesity Action Coalition's e-newsletter. The first few paragraphs are below and you can view full text by clicking here.
Alcohol abuse, obesity and depression seem to go hand in hand for many women, according to the first study to look at how the three relate to one another over time in young adults.
Dr. Carolyn A. McCarty of Seattle Children's Research Institute and her colleagues also found that almost half of the men and women in their study suffered from at least one of these problems between the ages of 21 and 30.
"That's big," McCarty told Reuters Health, and is likely only "the tip of the iceberg," because she and her colleagues used fairly stringent definitions of alcohol abuse, depression and obesity in their study.
Alcohol abuse, obesity and depression seem to go hand in hand for many women, according to the first study to look at how the three relate to one another over time in young adults.
Dr. Carolyn A. McCarty of Seattle Children's Research Institute and her colleagues also found that almost half of the men and women in their study suffered from at least one of these problems between the ages of 21 and 30.
"That's big," McCarty told Reuters Health, and is likely only "the tip of the iceberg," because she and her colleagues used fairly stringent definitions of alcohol abuse, depression and obesity in their study.
Bariatric surgery is recognized as the most effective and durable method for persons who are morbidly obese to lose their excess weight and keep it off for many years. It is NOT a quick fix. It is NOT taking the "easy way out."
The benefits of bariatric surgery are numerous:
Longer Life – Studies show that gastric bypass surgery can improve your life expectancy by as much as 89%.
Reduced Health Problems – Severe obesity is associated with at least 50 diseases, including diabetes, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, fatty liver, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, gout and various skeletal and joint problems. Bariatric surgery has been proven extremely successful in eliminating or dramatically reducing most of these health problems. For example, 80% of non-insulin dependent diabetics are cured as a result of gastric bypass. Sleep apnea patients enjoy uninterrupted sleep within a year of surgery, and half of the patients with high blood pressure come of their medications within a few months of surgery.
Psychological Benefits – Bariatric surgery can also help reduce the stress and anxiety associated with obesity. With a new self-image, issues like depression and fear of social situations can be overcome. A new desire and ability to interact with family and friends is also a common benefit following bariatric treatment.
Want to learn more about how Indiana weight loss surgery can help you? Then join us at a FREE informational seminar where Indianapolis bariatric surgeons and staff will discuss treatment options. Learn more by clicking here.
The benefits of bariatric surgery are numerous:
Longer Life – Studies show that gastric bypass surgery can improve your life expectancy by as much as 89%.
Reduced Health Problems – Severe obesity is associated with at least 50 diseases, including diabetes, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, fatty liver, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, gout and various skeletal and joint problems. Bariatric surgery has been proven extremely successful in eliminating or dramatically reducing most of these health problems. For example, 80% of non-insulin dependent diabetics are cured as a result of gastric bypass. Sleep apnea patients enjoy uninterrupted sleep within a year of surgery, and half of the patients with high blood pressure come of their medications within a few months of surgery.
Psychological Benefits – Bariatric surgery can also help reduce the stress and anxiety associated with obesity. With a new self-image, issues like depression and fear of social situations can be overcome. A new desire and ability to interact with family and friends is also a common benefit following bariatric treatment.
Want to learn more about how Indiana weight loss surgery can help you? Then join us at a FREE informational seminar where Indianapolis bariatric surgeons and staff will discuss treatment options. Learn more by clicking here.
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