Obesity, that is, being overweight, is rapidly becoming one of the most important health problems of developed world countries. More than 25% of American adults are obese, more than 5% are morbidly obese, that is, obese to the extent that they cause diseases, and these rates have been increasing in recent years. There are approximately 95,000 deaths from colon and breast cancer in the United States annually. 300,000 deaths occur due to diseases caused by morbid obesity.

How Is Obesity or Excess Weight Calculated?

Body mass index (BMI) is the most commonly used parameter to measure overweight and obesity in children and adults. It is calculated as BMI = body weight (kg) / height (meters)2.

Obesity Degree BMI

Overweight 25.0-29.9

Obese 30-34.9

Excessive Obese 35-39.9

Morbid Obese 40-49.9

Super Obese > 50