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News in English (USA) / 15.01.2025 / 09:00

Experts Call for Overhaul of Obesity Definition Beyond BMI

A new global report highlights the urgent need for redefining obesity, moving away from the traditional reliance on Body Mass Index (BMI). Medical professionals argue that the current system fails to accurately assess health by not considering body fat and overall health status. The proposed overhaul aims to define obesity as a spectrum of illness rather than merely a risk factor, emphasizing individual health and well-being. Experts suggest that the nuanced approach could improve treatment for millions, as many individuals are either overdiagnosed or misclassified based on their BMI alone. This shift in perspective is set to redefine how obesity is diagnosed and treated, sparking ongoing debates about whether it should be classified as a disease universally.
BBC.com, The Guardian, ABC News, USA TODAY, The New York Times, The Associated Press, New Atlas, The Conversation, TIME, New York Post