Overweight and obese people are at increased risk for disease and illness. One factor that is used in assessing health risk is Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI is a number based on both your height and weight. It is a screening tool used to determine risk of disease related to obesity. The higher the BMI, the higher the risk of some diseases.
The relation between weight and BMI differs with age and gender. For example, women are more likely to have a higher percent of body fat than men for the same BMI. On average, older people may have more body fat than younger adults with the same BMI.
Some common diseases related to being overweight or obese include:
- Cardiovascular disease
- High blood pressure
- Osteoarthritis
- Some cancers
- Diabetes
Physical activity and good nutrition are key factors in leading a healthy lifestyle and reducing risk for disease. A complete health assessment by a physician is the best way to decide the right steps for you. Whatever your BMI, talk to your doctor to see if you are at an increased risk for disease and if you should lose weight.
Other Methods of Determining Your Risk
BMI is only one of many factors used to predict risk of disease. BMI cannot be used to tell if a person has a disease such as diabetes or cancer. It is important to remember that weight is only one of many factors related to chronic disease. Other factors that may be important to look at when assessing your risk for chronic disease include:
- Diet
- Physical activity
- Waist circumference
- Waist to hip ratio
- Blood pressure
- Blood sugar level
- Cholesterol level
- Family history of disease
Physical activity and good nutrition are key factors in leading a healthy lifestyle and reducing risk for disease.
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