How to Understand Obesity Charts

When looking at the growing number of people that are considered obese, it can be confusing to determine what is considered obese and what is overweight. If someone is overweight, they are not considered at risk for certain conditions, but they need to be made aware of the fact that they could have these health problems in the future.

People, who are considered obese, are at risk for complications from diabetes, arthritis, heart disease and strokes. All of these conditions are exasperated by the condition of obesity. Being obese, puts a great amount of strain on joints and arthritis can become a problem for many patients. Heart disease and strokes are serious side effects of a person whose circulatory system is also strained by them being obese. Determining where a person fall on obesity charts can help them to realize what changes need to be made.

Obesity Charts: The Body Mass Index

One of the most common obesity charts used is the body mass index. This scale lists heights for men and women on the side and on the bottom are a list of pounds. By looking up the height and running a line to the weight, a person can then view where they fall on the Body Mass Index rating.

On this obesity chart, a body mass index of over 30 is considered obese. A body mass index from 18 to 24 is considered normal and 25 to 29 is considered overweight. By using this obesity chart, a patient can get a picture of where they fall in this scale. Many physicians use this as a screening tool, to help their patients visualize their potential risk for obesity.

Waist Measurement

Researchers often use a measurement of a person's waist to determine if they are at risk for complications caused by obesity. This is done by measuring the waist and then comparing it to an obesity chart that helps the researcher see trends in medical conditions. This waist measurement is used generally just by researchers, but can be another tool that is used.

X-Rays

There are several other tools that physicians can use to determine a persons risk. These types of measurements are another way to help asses the potential dangers that a patient may be headed for. One of these involves using an x-ray to check pockets of fat. Where there is an increase in fat can be an indication of risk for heart disease and other disorders.

Looking at obesity charts is one way to explain the patients risk for problems associated with obesity. These obesity charts are easy to use and many physicians are already aware of them and use them in their practices.

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