Obesity physical examination
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
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.
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