The use of Body Mass Index (BMI) to measure obesity levels was popularized in the 1970s. According to this index, anyone with a BMI reading of over 30 is categorized as obese and those over 40 are categorized as Stage 3 obese, which used to be called morbidly obese.
But a group of 58 experts have published a report in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology Journal urging that BMI readings should no longer be used to measure an individual's obesity level. Instead, it should be replaced with 18 diagnostic criteria for adults and 13 diagnostic criteria for children and adolescents.
The first change is that it is not just about height and weight. Fat percentage is a better indicator of long-term health. You can still be healthy even with a high BMI reading because your body is made up of muscle, not fat. Where fat is stored also needs to be taken into account. For example, fat storage in the liver, heart and waist is unhealthy compared to in the arms and legs.
Reclassification of obesity is necessary to ensure that treatment is provided to those who truly need it to ensure their long-term health and prevent future problems.