4 min learnNew DelhiJun 3, 2026 02:30 PM IST
BMI, or Physique Mass Index, is a straightforward calculation based mostly on an individual’s top and weight, generally used to categorise individuals as underweight, regular weight, chubby, or overweight. Nonetheless, Dr Mahesh D M, Senior Guide – Endocrinology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, like many different medical consultants, reiterates that “BMI doesn’t measure physique fats instantly and can’t present how extra fats is affecting an individual’s well being”. To beat these limitations, consultants from The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology Fee launched the idea of medical weight problems.
A current nationwide cross-sectional examine revealed within the Annals of Inside Medication journal said that “BMI alone doesn’t point out the presence of organ or bodily dysfunction as a result of extra adiposity”. Thus, the Lancet’s new definition of weight problems is “based mostly on professional opinion and outlined by the presence of each extra adiposity by anthropometric standards (reminiscent of waist circumference) and proof of subsequent decreased organ or bodily functioning”.
DISCLAIMER: This text relies on info from the general public area and/or the consultants we spoke to. All the time seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
Dr Mahesh tells indianexpress.com that BMI and medical weight problems are associated however not the identical. He believes a muscular individual might have a excessive BMI with out extra physique fats, whereas one other individual with a standard BMI should have unhealthy physique fats ranges.
As such, he explains that medical weight problems — “outlined as a continual illness during which extra physique fats causes well being issues, impacts regular physique operate, or damages organs and tissues” — focuses not solely on physique dimension but in addition on the precise influence of extra fats on an individual’s well being.
In keeping with Dr Mahesh, the important thing distinction is that “BMI is a screening device, whereas medical weight problems is a illness analysis”, based mostly on signs, physique fats ranges, and well being issues.
BMI vs Medical Weight problems: An individual with regular BMI should have unhealthy ranges of physique fats. (Magnific)
The professional says that in the present day, weight problems analysis ought to transcend BMI alone. “Medical doctors are inspired to evaluate waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, physique fats proportion, medical historical past, bodily examination, and weight problems-related issues. In some instances, physique composition scans and imaging checks can also be used to raised perceive fats distribution and well being dangers,” he elaborates.
Story continues under this advert
Indicators to be careful for medical weight problems
In keeping with Dr Mahesh, there are a number of indicators that will point out medical weight problems. These embrace shortness of breath throughout each day actions, issue strolling or climbing stairs, extreme tiredness, sleep issues reminiscent of sleep apnea, joint and again ache, decreased mobility, and issue performing routine duties, he lists out.
“Weight problems-related situations reminiscent of sort 2 diabetes, hypertension, coronary heart illness, fatty liver illness, kidney illness, and infertility may also be indicators that extra physique fats is affecting well being,” he provides.
Dr Mahesh concludes that the brand new method goals to establish individuals who actually want remedy and intervention, permitting for extra correct analysis, personalised care, and higher long-term well being outcomes.
DISCLAIMER: This text relies on info from the general public area and/or the consultants we spoke to. All the time seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
