
Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Obesity physical examination
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Physical Examination
Physical Examination
The two most common ways to measure health risks from obesity are:
- Body mass index (BMI)
- Waist circumference (waist measurement in inches)
BMI is measured using height and weight. Health care provider can use BMI to estimate body fat.
Waist measurement is another way to estimate body fat. Extra weight around your middle or stomach area increases your risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. People with “apple-shaped” bodies (meaning their waist is bigger than their hips) also have an increased risk for these diseases.
Skin fold measurements may be taken to check your body fat percentage.
References
References
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
