When it comes to achieving proper weight management, you’re well aware of the many benefits, including improved overall health, more self-esteem, and financial gains. But new research suggests that shedding those excess pounds may enable you to extend your lifespan into your 90’s – and even beyond!

After smoking, obesity is the second-biggest cause of preventable death in America. In fact, obesity is forecast to reach the number-one spot within five years. Billions of dollars are spent annually in this country for obesity-related medical bills and weight-loss products. In addition, an August 2007 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that obesity contributed to specific medical conditions — such as diabetes and high blood pressure – that may reduce life spans.

The bottom line? Obesity and longevity don’t mix, due to the stress that excess weight puts on your lungs, heart and kidneys. “If you happen to live over 80 and are overweight, you’re usually in sad shape,” says Dr. Duc C. Vuong, head of Texas City Surgical at Mainland Medical Center. Indeed, researchers believe that the key to living longer and healthier may depend on both your eating habits and weight. And yes, dieting and exercising can certainly impart healthy benefits.

However, Dr. Vuong, who is Vietnamese, feels that the American culture may be contributing to the nation’s higher body mass indexes, and the obesity problem, in general. And while the Asian culture promotes healthier eating habits, this may be changing, as well. “First generation Asians who are born here see the same obesity and cancer rates as Americans. All it takes is one generation, and all the good is (undone),” says Vuong.

In the quest to combat obesity, medical professionals are finding great success with meal-replacement programs and surgical procedures. In particular, the Lap-Band procedure – in which an adjustable band is placed around the esophagus where it meets the stomach – is helping many patients in Texas and beyond to maintain a healthier weight. This procedure regulates the amount of food that enters the stomach, thereby regulating patients’ appetites. “Longevity is the main reason I had the Lap-Band,” says Judy Blizard of Texas City. “I (turned) 55 Christmas Eve, and I was looking squarely at 10 more years, because at 65 I might not be around if I didn’t make some changes.”

Aside from dramatic weight loss, some patients are experiencing benefits for diabetes, and are even being taken off their medications. “By losing weight, 95 percent of patients will have their diabetes cured,” Vuong said. “Not treated, but cured.” However, obese patients with diabetes are advised to take action sooner than later. Research conducted in May 2006 showed that the longer a person lives with diabetes, the lower the likelihood that weight loss will provide an effective cure.