World Obesity Day: let's talk about it!

How is obesity defined and what are the consequences?

Dr Raffaela Morard Passera: Obesity is defined as an excess of body fat with adverse health consequences. The most commonly used indicator for diagnosing obesity is the Body Mass Index (BMI): weight (kg)/height² (m²). Here is the WHO BMI classification:

• Overweight: 25 ≤ BMI < 30
• Moderate obesity (class 1): 30 ≤ BMI < 35
• Severe obesity (class 2): 35 ≤ BMI < 40
• Morbid obesity (class 3): BMI ≥ 40

It can also be assessed by other measurements, such as waist circumference or body composition (fat mass vs. muscle mass). Obesity has been recognised as a chronic disease by several health organisations, including the World Health Organisation since 2008.

Why is obesity considered a disease?

Dr Raffaela Morard Passera: Obesity is considered a disease because it is associated with an increased risk of other diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, certain forms of cancer and sleep apnoea. These diseases are considered comorbidities when they are linked to obesity. Obesity also has an impact on quality of life, such as sleep, mobility and mental health.

BMI calculator

The BMI calculator is an index defined by the WHO and can be an indication of obesity. The BMI provides information about the relationship between height and weight, and age also plays a role in the calculation.  It is calculated by dividing the weight by the height squared. The Body Mass Index (BMI) ranges on a scale from 18.5 (underweight) to over 40 (overweight grade 3).

Calculate your personal BMI directly here and find out in which range you are.

Body Mass Index Calculator