Health Obesity must be diagnosed differently, according to experts
According to experts, the body mass index (BMI) is not a reliable measure of health. An international group of medical experts, including doctors from Geneva University Hospital, is proposing a fundamental revision of the diagnostic guidelines for obesity.
15.01.2025, 00:30
SDA
In addition to BMI, data on body fat should be used, the group recommends in the specialist journal "The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology".
The BMI is calculated by dividing the body weight in kilograms by the height in meters squared. A BMI of over 30 is considered an indication of obesity in people of European descent. However, the BMI cannot provide any information on a person's state of health or differentiate between fat and muscle mass.
The Commission specifically proposes measuring body fat directly or measuring waist circumference or the ratio of waist to height or hips in addition to weight and height. In addition, attention should be paid to objective signs and symptoms of poor health.
