WHO Defines Obesity as Having a BMI of 30 or Higher

Defining Obesity Based on BMI

The World Health Organization (WHO) categorizes obesity as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher. BMI is calculated using your height and weight measurements. While not the only indicator of healthy weight status, BMI correlates with body fat percentage and can identify increased risks.

How BMI Relates to Obesity

BMI forms the foundation of the clinical definition and diagnosis criteria for obesity. The higher your BMI number, the more excess weight you are estimated to be carrying. Once your BMI enters the obese range, you are considered to have high body fat levels. BMI screens for associated health risks that come with heavier weights.

BMI Limitations

Despite its widespread use, BMI does have limitations when evaluating obesity on an individual level. BMI can overestimate body fat in muscular builds or underestimate it in older adults who have lost muscle mass. BMI also does not account for fat distribution which impacts health differently. Use BMI as a starting gauge along with other metrics.

Health Risks of Obesity

Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, negatively affects almost every organ system over time. Even without other risk factors, obesity alone upticks the chances of developing major health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, cancer and premature death.

Impact on Cardiovascular Health

Excess fat cells release inflammatory chemicals affecting blood vessels, lipids and blood pressure regulation. Obese individuals face over a 50% higher risk of congestive heart failure. Weight loss as little as 5% reverses some cardiovascular changes.

Link with Metabolic Disorders

Carrying abundant body fat contributes to insulin resistance and rollercoaster blood sugars. Obese people have a 7 times higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Fatty liver disease, often asymptomatic initially, also associates with higher weights.

Associations with Cancer

Being overweight or obese correlates to an increased incidence of developing certain cancers later in life. Obese women have a 50% higher chance of postmenopausal breast and uterine cancers. Colon, kidney and pancreatic cancer risks also rise.

Assessing Your BMI and Obesity Standing

Since BMI correlates so closely to body composition and health outcomes, having an awareness of your current number is important. This allows you to gauge disease risks and whether weight management intervention is warranted.

Calculate Your BMI

BMI equals your weight in kilograms divided by your height in meters squared. Many online BMI calculators make this simple by allowing you to plug in your height and weight measurements. This spits out your BMI number on a scale from underweight to obese.

Evaluate Your Fat Distribution

Research now suggests that excess abdominal fat may be an even stronger predictor of poor health than BMI or body weight alone. Measure your waist circumference to estimate visceral fat stores. Numbers over 35 inches for women and 40 inches for men raise concerns.

Assess Associated Health Markers

High BMI in isolation does not confirm obesity related risks. Have your doctor run bloodwork to evaluate biomarkers like blood glucose, cholesterol panels, triglycerides, liver enzymes and inflammatory markers. These provide objective data on developing issues.

Improving BMI into Healthy Ranges

The good news is that losing even a moderate amount of weight can rapidly lower BMI into healthier zones. A 5-10% drop in body weight then maintaining long term significantly cuts obesity related disease risks for most.

Start with Diet Quality

Emphasize dietary quality first for easier weight regulation long term. Balance lean proteins with fiber rich vegetable carbohydrates and healthy fats at meals. Stay hydrated, eat slowly, minimize snacking to help weight loss momentum.

Build More Movement Throughout Days

Increased daily movement pays compounding dividends for dropping BMI. Simple changes like taking the stairs, walking during lunch, pacing when on the phone burn extra calories. Building cardio, strength training and flexibility exercises accelerates progress.

Consider Weight Loss Medications if Needed

For some with longstanding obesity, structured programs with lifestyle modification plus weight loss medications facilitate success. Newer medications aid weight regulation long term with excellent safety profiles. Evaluate options with your doctor if diet and activity stalls.

Maintaining a BMI under 30 through balanced nutrition and active living keeps most disease free well into older age. Use your current BMI as a barometer for improving lifestyle habits. Even small consistent changes compound over years yielding outsized health rewards.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.