Definition of obesity
Obesity is a chronic disease requiring multidisciplinary and long-term management.
Obesity is defined by a BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2.
Calculation of BMI, target weight and excess weight allows patient treatment goals to be established. Location of excess fat is also a risk factor in obesity, therefore it is important to record waist diameter. Success following an operation is generally defined as loss of over 50 per cent of excess weight or maintaining a BMI < 35.
For selected patients, obesity surgery (or bariatric surgery or weight loss surgery), combined with changes in eating habits and increased physical activity, is an effective weight loss method.
Surgery is the only current treatment that achieves long-term weight control in over 85 per cent of morbidly obese patients.
It can also be used to control or improve certain co-morbidities, to improve quality of life and reduce obesity-related mortality.
BMI Calculator
Enter your height and weight to see your Body Mass Index (BMI) category and your Obesity Class (if applicable).
We use the standard formula: BMI = kg / (m²)
| Category | Class | BMI (kg/m²) |
|---|
BMI is a general screening tool for adults and does not directly measure body fat. It may be less accurate for some people (e.g., very muscular individuals, certain ethnic groups, or older adults). Please discuss your results with your healthcare provider.
