ABSTRACT
Morbid obesity has achieved epidemic proportions in the United States. A vast number of comorbid conditions are associated with morbid obesity, including metabolic syndrome, which consists o f central obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. An association between obesity and intra-abdominal hypertension has been demonstrated, which explains the predisposition to pseudotumor cerebri, hypertension, pul monary disorders, stress urinary incontinence, gastroesophageal reflux, and incisional hernia in morbid obesity. Weight loss results in a reduction in intra-abdominal pressure and resolution of comorbidities.
