New guidance from a team of health experts around the world proposes expanding the definition of obesity beyond the popular body mass index (BMI) measure.

According to a September 2024 data brief from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 40.3 percent of U.S. adults were considered obese between August 2021 and August 2023.

BMI, a widely used measure, has long been criticized for being too simplistic. It calculates obesity based only on height and weight, often misclassifying individuals. For example, athletes with high muscle mass may have a high BMI despite having normal fat levels.

However, this classification system assumes that weight alone is a reliable indicator of health, disregarding important variables such as body composition, muscle mass, and bone density. These assumptions are increasingly being challenged, particularly when it comes to diverse ethnic groups.

Annual exams are more crucial than ever as the prevalence of chronic diseases in the United States continues to climb. According to a study published by

The way the world defines obesity has been in need of an overhaul, according to some experts, and it could be coming soon thanks to a new set of standards.

A commission proposed a new definition of obesity focused on how excess fat affects the body, rather than assessing body mass index, that could change clinical care.

Theories suggest UTI and constipation are related, but one does not necessarily cause the other at this stage in research. Learn about treating both here.

Leading health experts challenge traditional BMI measurements and introduce a comprehensive new approach to diagnosing obesity, potentially affecting millions.

Underweight children may experience different health issues. That is why it is important to include some weight gain foods for kids in their diet. You may know about the ideal weight your child should have by following the international BMI regulations.

An international team of doctors proposed a new way to define obesity that's not based solely on BMI. Here's what they suggest.

which will likely lower your BMI. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists these waist circumference guidelines: less than 35 inches for a woman (nonpregnant) and less than 40 ...