How to measure your obesity?

Measuring Obesity

A number of tools are available to measure obesity. Most are based on height and weight ratios, body size and shape, and percent body fat. All have benefits as well as limitations. (A doctor or other health professional can perform these tests most accurately.)

Body Mass Index (BMI)Determines underweight (<18.5), normal weight (18.5-24.9), overweight (25.0-29.9), and obese (30.0 – 39.9) based on a person's height and weight. A result greater than 40 is considered morbidly obese, which can be a potentially deadly situation.

BMI is the most popular method of determining weight status by health care professionals. The BMI is limited however, because it does not account for weight from muscle versus that from fat. Below is a BMI table showing height and weight and the associated BMI units for adults.
Waist Circumference This measurement in combination with BMI has shown to be the best predictor of obesity and associated health risks.

The size of a person's waist can help predict risk of certain diseases. A waist size greater than 40 inches for men and 35 inches for women increases risk for most weight-related illnesses. Waist circumference is also used to determine a person's body shape. Body shape is based on how a person carries extra weight, and is used as an important predictor of health risk.
“Apple” versus “Pear” Shape People who carry extra weight around their bellies are considered “apple” shaped. Those who carry it around their hips and buttocks are “pear” shaped. People with “apple” shapes are at risk for developing obesity-related health problems. The pictures below illustrate the “apple” and “pear” shapes”.

Waist- to- Hip Ratio (WHR)WHR is the ratio of a person's waist circumference to their hip circumference, and is also used to determine risk for weight-related illnesses. This is calculated by dividing the person's waist measurement by their hip measurement. A WHR greater than 1.0 in men or greater than 0.8 in women is considered obese.
How to measure waist circumference-Using a tape measure, comfortably measure your waist right below the rib cage and above the belly button. How to measure hip circumference? Using a tape measure, comfortably measure your hips around the largest portion of the buttocks.

The BMI, Apple vs. Pear, and WHR are useful tools for giving a general idea of how weight might affect your health. They do not tell you how weight is affecting your health imparticular. It is always a good idea talk with your doctor about your weight and weight management strategies when you have concerns or questions.