The Bariatric Center at Columbus Regional Health will conduct free information sessions at Southern Indiana Surgery, 2325 18th St., Suite 220, Columbus.

Those wanting to learn about obesity and bariatric surgery can attend the sessions, led by Dr. David J. Lee and nurse practitioner Samantha Grider, at 5:30 p.m. June 12 and 26.

Lee, bariatric medical director at Southern Indiana Surgery, said the sessions will cover the causes of obesity, trends and quality-of-life issues. The sessions also will explore misconceptions about bariatric surgery, lifestyle implications, insurance coverage and surgery options, including sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

To qualify for bariatric surgery, patients must have a body mass index of at least 35 and have significant weight-related conditions or have a BMI of more than 40 without weight-related conditions.

To register, visit columbusbariatrics.com or call the center at 812-418-3512. Walk-ins are welcome.