Commission Issues ‘Radical Overhaul’ of Obesity Diagnosis

Summary: Doctors are changing how they diagnose obesity, and it is great news for muscular athletes and action stars! For years, doctors relied on Body Mass Index (BMI), a simple math formula using just your height and weight. The big problem? BMI cannot tell the difference between body fat and heavy muscle. Because of this, many super-fit celebrities and pro athletes were technically labeled "obese."

Now, top health experts have created a brand-new system. Instead of just looking at the scale, doctors will measure waist size to check for extra body fat. Then, they will look for actual health problems caused by the weight, like breathing issues or heart trouble. If the extra weight is causing real symptoms, it is called "clinical obesity" and needs treatment. If you have extra weight but no symptoms, it is called "preclinical obesity," meaning you just need to keep an eye on your health to prevent future issues. This smart change will help people get the exact care they need—and stop healthy, muscular people from being told they are sick!

Source: MDedge / Internal Medicine URL: mdedge.com/internalmedicine/article/272184/obesity/commission-issues-radical-overhaul-obesity-diagnosis (opens in new tab)