National Guidelines

These first national guidelines were issued in June 98'.They are based on body mass index (BMI) which measures the amount of fat in your body. These new guidelines give us a clear definition of obesity.  They tell us how much fat is too fat.

According these national guidelines more than one half of adults in America are now overweight or obese. That translates into approximately 97 million adults who have a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher and should be advised to prevent further weight gain or initiate weight loss.

Higher BMI levels are associated with major health risks including heart disease, high blood pressure, certain types of cancer, diabetes, arthritis, and many others. For more information on this topic see weight management-- health risks of obesity and an inactive lifestyle.

Definitions of Overweight and Obesity

Overweight is defined as 20 percent or more above desirable weight or a
BMI from 25 to 29.9

Obesity is defined as 40 percent or more above desirable weight or a BMI from 30 to 30.9

Morbid Obesity as a BMI of 40 or higher.
 

Obesity Facts

  Multiple studies now indicate that a BMI of 25  is the point at which
      health risks and mortality increase.

  Obesity is a major health risk.

  According to new national guidelines issued in June 98' more than one
      half of all Americans are overweight.
 

BMI values apply to both men and women, regardless of their
frame size or muscle mass -- with a few exceptions. 
 

  Anyone less than 18 years old
  Body builders

  Competitive athletes
  Frail or sedentary elderly individuals

Pregnant or nursing women