BMI 'not enough to measure obesity risk'07 Dec 2007
Although accurate, the body mass index (BMI) should not be solely relied upon as a clinical indicator of obesity as it does not account for the body's composition, according to the National Obesity Forum (NOF).Using the example of a professional rugby player, Dr Colin Waine, chair of NOF, said that with a BMI of 32 the sportsman would fall into the 'at risk' category, but in real terms wouldn't make him clinically obese. Dr Waine advised that waist circumference was the best clinical measure, adding that those whose waist measures above 40 inches in men and 35 inches in women were at higher risk of the metabolic complications of obesity.He commented: "We have to continue to measure the BMI because it has always been used, but [we should] supplement it with waist circumference."In October 2006, the BBC also published an article suggesting that BMI is no longer the best method for measuring weight. Studies show that decreasing levels of physical activity is one of the most "significant" factors contributing to Britain's rising obesity levels. Discuss this item in our forums
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