It results in polycythemia a condition which results in high levels of circulation red blood cells in the blood stream. Hypoxia, smoking, chronic exposure to carbon monoxide or living at high altitudes are its risk factors. Controlling high blood pressures, smoking etc. can potentially reduce its risk.
By procedure, it generally costs anywhere from $10,000 to $25,000 for gastric sleeve surgery, while the average cost of lap band surgery is $12,000 to $25,000 and the average cost of gastric bypass surgery is $20,000 to $35,000.
Disparities in gastric sleeve insurance coverage are common. United Healthcare will cover the cost of gastric sleeve surgery for individuals with a BMI of 40 or higher, or a BMI 35 to 39.9 and one obesity-related illness.