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Contents
  • Measure Body Mass Index (BMI)
  • Check Waist Circumference
  • Evaluate Health Risks

How to Screen for Obesity: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Screen for Obesity: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step-by-Step

Get to know the essential steps in screening for obesity, which can help in early detection and management. Follow this guide to ensure comprehensive evaluation.
Contents
  • Measure Body Mass Index (BMI)
  • Check Waist Circumference
  • Evaluate Health Risks

Measure Body Mass Index (BMI)

Start by calculating the BMI using the formula: weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared. This measurement helps determine if an individual is overweight or obese. A BMI of 25-29.9 indicates overweight, while 30 or above signifies obesity.

Check Waist Circumference

Measure waist circumference as an additional indicator of obesity risk. A waist measurement of 40 inches or more for men and 35 inches or more for women suggests an increased risk of obesity-related health issues. This measurement is particularly important for those with a BMI between 25 and 35.
Get to know the essential steps in screening for obesity, which can help in early detection and management. Follow this guide to ensure comprehensive evaluation.

Evaluate Health Risks

Assess additional health risks associated with obesity, such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. This involves gathering patient history, conducting physical exams, and performing necessary lab tests. Understanding these risks can guide treatment and lifestyle recommendations.

FAQs

How is BMI calculated?

BMI is calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared.

What is a risky waist circumference?

A waist circumference of 40 inches for men and 35 inches for women is considered risky.

Why measure waist circumference?

It provides additional risk information not captured by BMI alone.

What health risks are linked to obesity?

Obesity is linked to diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension.

Wrapping Up

Could these simple steps be your key to better health management?
Get started with Doctronic to learn more about effective obesity screening techniques.
Additional References
  1. Jensen MD, Ryan DH, Apovian CM, et al. 2013 AHA/ACC/TOS guideline for the management of overweight and obesity in adults: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines and The Obesity Society. Circulation 2014; 129:S102.
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Defining adult overweight & obesity. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/basics/adult-defining.html
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.