A new report proposes redefining obesity by incorporating body fat measurements and health status into the traditional body mass index (BMI) measure. The Commission on Clinical Obesity, led by dozens of medical experts worldwide, recommends expanding the definition to include pre-clinical and clinical obesity categories.
Pre-clinical obesity refers to excess fat without organ dysfunction, but with an increased risk of developing long-term health problems like cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes. In contrast, clinical obesity involves excess fat that directly affects organ function or limits daily activities, potentially leading to life-threatening complications like heart attack, kidney failure, and stroke.
The report combines elevated BMI with at least one abnormal body fat measurement, such as waist circumference, to diagnose obesity. Notably, two or more abnormal body fat measurements can classify an individual as obese regardless of their BMI.
Experts emphasize that using BMI alone is insufficient, as it doesn’t account for body composition or the location of fat. Obesity is a chronic disease with significant health consequences, causing multiple illnesses and worsening existing conditions.
The commission’s recommendations aim to provide a more nuanced approach to evaluating and managing obesity. By recognizing pre-clinical and clinical categories, healthcare providers can tailor treatment strategies to individual needs, from less intensive, less expensive approaches for those at risk of complications to more intensive care for those with established health problems.
While it remains unclear when these recommendations will be widely adopted, the commission’s goal is to move beyond blanket diagnoses of obesity and identify individuals who are harmed by their weight.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/Health/new-report-proposes-redefining-obesity-adding-body-fat/story?id=117678332