A new study published in the Annals of Family Medicine suggests that bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) may be a more accurate way to predict future health issues than body mass index (BMI). BIA measures not only body fat percentage but also lean muscle mass and water weight, providing a more comprehensive picture of an individual’s health.
The study analyzed data from 4,252 men and women who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 1999 and 2004. Researchers found that BMI was not associated with a higher risk of death from any cause for those in the healthy weight range. However, people with high body fat as measured by BIA were 78% more likely to die from any cause.
Additionally, the study found that individuals with high body fat had a 262% higher chance of dying from heart disease compared to those with a healthy body fat percentage.
“This is a game-changer for how we should look at body composition,” said Dr. Frank Orlando, clinical associate professor of community health and family medicine at University of Florida Health. “Using BIA could lead to personalized medicine and improved patient outcomes.”
The study’s findings have significant implications for the medical profession, as it suggests that BMI may be a surrogate measure that is not accurate over time. With the ability to provide individualized risk assessments and lifestyle recommendations, BIA has the potential to revolutionize the way doctors approach patient care.
According to Dr. Andrew Freeman, director of cardiovascular prevention and wellness at National Jewish Health, “This study shows how better weight measurements could easily become personalized medicine.” The study’s results highlight the importance of moving beyond traditional BMI measures and exploring alternative methods that can provide more accurate and comprehensive health assessments.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/06/24/health/bmi-versus-body-fat-wellness