Body mass index, waist size, and risk for disease
Your body mass index (BMI) and waist size affect your risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and coronary artery disease. The following table shows the risk.
| Classification | BMI | Waist size and relative risk | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Men: less than 40 in. (102 cm) Women: less than 35 in. (88 cm) |
Men: 40 in. (102 cm) or more Women: 35 in. (88 cm) or more |
||
| Normal | 18.5–24.9 | - | - |
| Overweight | 25–29.9 | Increased risk | High risk |
| Obesity I | 30–34.9 | High risk | Very high risk |
| Obesity II | 35–39.9 | Very high risk | Very high risk |
| Obesity III (extreme) | 40 or above | Extremely high risk | Extremely high risk |
A BMI under 18.5 is considered unhealthy. There is risk that you are not getting sufficient nutrition (malnutrition). Complications of malnutrition include anemia, nutrient deficiency, heart irregularities, loss of menstrual periods in women (amenorrhea), cavities, and osteoporosis. Being underweight may also result in depression and other mental health conditions.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
April 20, 2007
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