Obesity is a growing problem in the United States and more specifically, in Florida. Accord-ing to the most recent data available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 24.4 percent of Florida’s population was classified as obese in 2007. Lee County’s population, scored higher at 25.4 percent.

As obesity has become a deeper and more widespread condition, the number of people undergoing weight loss surgery has also grown dramatically over the past few years. The most common procedures nationwide are gastric banding and gastric bypass, and a newer procedure known as a sleeve gastrectomy is also growing in popularity.

One of the nation’s most experienced surgeons practices here in Southwest Florida at Lee Memorial Health System’s Bariatric Center.

Moses Shieh, D.O., FACOS, leads LMHS’ holistic bariatric and weight management practice, which includes surgery, ongoing support groups and activities, revisional surgery and post-weight loss body contouring.

The first step in determining whether or not you are a candidate for bariatric surgery is determining your body mass index.

Once it is determined that you are a candidate, several pieces of the LMHS program fit together to meet your needs. All patient plans include one-on-one meetings with a dietician, program coordinator and Shieh, as well as ongoing support groups.

“All aspects of our program, from the surgery itself to the follow up support groups, are done locally,” Shieh said. “Most surgeries are performed at Lee Memorial Hospital and support group sessions are held at both Lee Memorial Hospital and Cape Coral Hospital. We are also working on expanding our presence and offerings in the Bonita Springs area.”

People interested in learning more about bariatric surgery and LMHS’ weight loss program can do so at one of several upcoming complimentary educational seminars. Seating is limited, so reservations are requested. Call 239-343-9966 to reserve your spot.

n Thursday, Jan. 21, 6:30 8:30 p.m., Lee Memorial Hospital.

n Tuesday, Jan. 26, part of Lee Memorial Health System’s Well Informed Lecture Series, 5 6:30 p.m., Hyatt Place Coconut Point, Estero.

n Thursday, Feb. 18, 6:30 8:30 p.m., Cape Coral Hospital.

Find calculators and more information online at www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing or www.TheBariatric-Center.org.