Obesity
Body mass index (BMI) is widely used as a simple and reliable way of finding out whether a person is a healthy weight for their height.
For most adults, having a BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 means you're considered to be a healthy weight. A person with a BMI of 25 to 29.9 is considered to be overweight, and someone with a BMI over 30 is considered to be obese.
While BMI is a useful measurement for most people, it's not accurate for everyone.
For example, the normal BMI scores may not be accurate if you're very muscular because muscle can add extra pounds, resulting ina high BMI when you're not an unhealthy weight. In such cases, your waist circumference may be a better guide (see below).
What's considered a healthy BMI is also influenced by your ethnic background. The scores mentioned above generally apply to people with a white Caucasian background. If you have an ethnic minority background, the threshold for being considered overweight or obese may be lower.
BMI shouldn't be used to work out whether a child is a healthy weight, becausetheir bodies are still developing.Speak to your GP if you want to find out whether your child is overweight.
If you're overweight or obese,visit your GP for advice about losing weight safely and to find out whether you have an increased risk of health problems.
Your GPmay ask about:
As well as calculating your BMI, your GP may also carry out tests to determine whether you're at increased risk of developing health complications because of your weight.
These could includemeasuring your:
People with very large waists generally, 94cm (37in) or more in men and 80cm (about 31.5in) or more in women are more likely to develop obesity-related health problems.
Your GP may also take your ethnicity into account because it can affect your risk of developing certain conditions. For example, some people of Asian, African or Afro-Caribbean ethnicity may be at increased risk of high blood pressure (hypertension) . Healthy waist measurements can also be different for people from different ethnic backgrounds.
After your assessment, you'll be offered an appointment to discuss the results in more detail, ask any questions that you have, and fully explore the treatment options available to you.
The term 'obese' describes a person who's very overweight, with a lot of body fat. Ways to lose weight safely include eating a healthy, reduced-calorie diet and exercising regularly.
Obesity is generally caused by eating too much and moving too little. Underlying health conditions and taking certain medications can also contribute to weight gain.
Read about how body mass index (BMI) is used to determine whether a person is overweight or obese. Lifestyle factors, such as diet and physical activity levels, are also important.
Information and advice about losing weight safely using diet and exercise. Other useful strategies include setting weight loss goals and asking for the support of family and friends.