HomeBreaking WLS NewsObesity: BMI Not Always the Best Measurement gwhqadmin September 26, 2009 Breaking WLS News 1 Comment Obesity is generally measured by body mass index, or BMI. But, a new study indicates that BMI may not provide an accurate assessment for the elderly. A new study shows that the elderly are better off measuring obesity by looking in the mirror, rather than figuring out their body mass index. Researchers at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA studied data from more than 1,100 men and women over age 70. Their findings suggested that using body mass index – a ratio of height to weight – may not be the best way to determine obesity in older people. Instead, the ratio of waist size to hip size can better indicate an elderly person’s obesity level, as well as possible health problems that can result from excess weight. Researchers noted that, as we get older, body size and composition can change. And so, using body mass index as a measure of health isn’t as reliable as it might be at a younger age. According to the findings, a waist-to-hip ratio of less than one is desirable. Wide hips and a muscular lower body are good signs. But once the waistline outgrows the hip size, there’s a higher chance of being classified as obese. And according to the study, death rates were higher among the elderly people who fit that category. Get the Flash Player to see the wordTube Media Player. One Response Dr. L.K. Shankhdhar, M.D. September 27, 2009 Body fat percentage is more reliable than anything else. Bioelectrical Impedence method is an easy and affordable way to measure body fat percentage. In men percentage above 25 and women above 33% is taken as obesity. Reply Leave a Reply Cancel ReplyYour email address will not be published.CommentName* Email* Website CAPTCHA Code *
Dr. L.K. Shankhdhar, M.D. September 27, 2009 Body fat percentage is more reliable than anything else. Bioelectrical Impedence method is an easy and affordable way to measure body fat percentage. In men percentage above 25 and women above 33% is taken as obesity. Reply