Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

What demographic is bariatric surgery recommended for according to the American Diabetes Association?

1. Children over age 14 with a BMI > 35 kg/m2 and inadequately managed type 2 diabetes.

2. Adults with a BMI > 30 kg/m2 and inadequately managed type 2 diabetes.

3. Adults with a BMI > 35 kg/m2 and inadequately managed type 2 diabetes.

4. Children over age 16 with a BMI > 40 kg/m2 and inadequately managed type 2 diabetes.

The correct answer is: Adults with a BMI > 35 kg/m2 and inadequately managed type 2 diabetes.

Bariatric surgery is recommended for adults with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 35 kg/m² who have inadequately managed type 2 diabetes, according to the guidelines set forth by the American Diabetes Association. This guideline is grounded in research that shows significant weight loss achieved through bariatric surgery can lead to substantial improvements in glycemic control, often resulting in remission of type 2 diabetes for many individuals. This recommendation acknowledges the severe health risks associated with obesity, particularly in those who struggle to manage their diabetes effectively through lifestyle changes and medication alone. The combination of a high BMI and diabetes plays a critical role in determining eligibility for surgery, as managing these conditions can dramatically enhance quality of life and reduce the likelihood of diabetes-related complications. The incorrect options reflect either varying age limits, lower BMI thresholds, or criteria that don't align with the current standards of care for bariatric surgery in relation to diabetes management. For example, while children and adolescents are considered for this surgery, the specific eligibility criteria take into account different parameters compared to adults.