American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What BMI is indicative of the necessity for bariatric surgery?

1. BMI of 30 or higher

2. BMI of 25 or higher

3. BMI of 40 or higher

4. BMI of 45 or higher

The correct answer is: BMI of 40 or higher

A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher is indicative of the necessity for bariatric surgery. This threshold is essential because it identifies individuals who are classified as severely obese. Patients with a BMI in this range are typically at significant risk for obesity-related health complications, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and cardiovascular disease. Bariatric surgery is generally considered when lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, have been ineffective for weight loss in patients with a BMI of 40 or more or in those with a BMI of 35 or more who have obesity-related comorbidities. By focusing on this specific BMI range, healthcare providers aim to improve patients' health outcomes and reduce the risks associated with severe obesity. Other BMI categories, such as 30 or higher, may not meet the criteria for surgical intervention unless accompanied by significant health issues, while a BMI of 25 or higher typically falls into the overweight category without necessarily indicating the need for surgical weight loss procedures. Thus, the threshold of 40 is crucial for identifying candidates who would benefit most from surgical options.