Answer :
Final answer:
The correct BMI category recommended by the NIH for gastric bypass surgery is 35-40 kg/m² for patients with morbid obesity. Bariatric surgery is advised for those who have not had success with traditional weight loss methods and those with serious health issues related to obesity.
Explanation:
The NIH recommends gastric bypass surgery for patients falling into specific BMI categories. The correct option for patients recommended to undergo this surgical procedure is c) 35-40 kg/m², which applies to individuals with morbid obesity. This condition is diagnosed when a person has a BMI of ≥ 35 kg/m² coupled with obesity-related health issues, or when a person's BMI ranges between ≥ 40 kg/m² and < 45 kg/m², even without additional health problems. Bariatric surgery, including gastric bypass, is an effective intervention especially useful for people who have not achieved significant weight loss through diet and exercise alone. By making changes to the digestive system, bariatric surgery can substantially reduce body weight and improve or resolve many obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and hypertension.