What is Overweight
What exactly is Overweight? Our medical encyclopedia can get you started in your journey to learn more about this condition. Continue your research by clicking a new category in the left navigation.
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Overweight Definition
Being overweight or obese means your weight is above an ideal weight range. Excess weight creates increased risk of heart disease, certain cancers, and other serious illnesses like diabetes. One tool used to estimate ideal and overweight ranges is called the body mass index (BMI). This scale determines weight ranges based on height. BMI levels include:
- Ideal weight range: 18.5-24.9
- Overweight: 25.0-29.9
- Obese: 30.0 or above
- Morbid obesity: 40 or above (35 and above with current health condition like diabetes or high blood pressure)
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