Obesity (cont.)
Medical Author:
Gayle M Galletta, MD
Coauthor:
Hasnain M Khandwala, MD, FRCPC
Medical Editor:
Arthur B Chausmer, MD, PhD, FACP, FACE, FACN, CNS
Medical Editor:
Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD
Medical Editor:
George T Griffing, MD
IN THIS ARTICLE
Exams and TestsWeight-to-height tables Body fat percentage Body fat percentage is difficult to measure accurately, however. Special equipment is needed that is not found at most medical offices. The methods used at health clubs and weight loss programs may not be accurate if not done properly. Waist measurement is also an important factor. People with "apple" shapes, who tend to put on weight around their waist, have a higher risk of obesity-related health problems. This includes women with a waist measurement of greater than 35 inches and men with a waist measurement of greater than 40 inches. Body mass index Body mass index is closely related to body fat percentage but is much easier to measure. Therefore, it is used by many primary care providers to identify obesity. The greater your BMI, the higher your risk of developing health problems related to excess weight. To calculate your body mass index, follow these steps:
What does BMI tell you?
To calculate your body mass indexon the Internet, fill in your height and weight at the Web site of the government's National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's Obesity Education Initiative. Viewer Comments & ReviewsObesity - Effective TreatmentsThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:What kinds of treatments have been effective for your obesity? Obesity In Children - CausesThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:What is/was the cause of your obesity? |
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Obesity »
Obesity is a substantialpublic-health crisis in the United States and in the rest of the developed world.
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