Obesity Screening
An obesity screening with a BMI is used to find out if an adult or a child has an unhealthy body weight for their height.
An obesity screening with a BMI is used to find out if an adult or a child has an unhealthy body weight for their height. This helps a provider understand a person's risk for diseases that are linked to extra body fat. But obesity screening doesn't show the amount of fat a person has, and it can't diagnose any health conditions, so other tests may be needed. A BMI may also be used to find out if weight-loss efforts are working.
Why is this test ordered? Most adults and children ages 2 and older should be screened with a BMI at least once a year. Yearly obesity screening tracks your BMI over time. If it gets higher, it usually means you're gaining extra fat. Even if your higher BMI stays in the healthy range, weight gain from fat can still increase your risk for weight-related diseases. Obesity screening can help catch weight gain early so you can take steps to control your weight before it harms your health. If you already have obesity or are overweight, screening helps your provider monitor your risk for health problems related to body fat. Information about your risk level helps you and your provider consider the pros and cons of different weight-loss treatments.
Clinical Interpretation
If an obesity screening shows that you have obesity or are overweight, your provider will work with you to develop a treatment plan. The goal of the plan is to reduce your risk of health problems linked to extra body fat. Your plan will depend on how much weight you need to lose and the cause of your weight gain. Most plans are likely to include lifestyle changes, such as: Eating a healthier, lower calorie diet Getting more exercise Getting enough good-quality sleep Depending on your BMI and health, you provider may also suggest: Support from a dietary or nutritional counselor A behavioral weight-loss treatment program Prescription weight-loss medicines combined with lifestyle changes Weight loss surgery or devices, such as balloons, that are put in the stomach to help you lose weight If you have questions about obesity screening or treatments to lower your BMI, talk with your provider. Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results .
Clinical Protocol & Patient Advice
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You don't need to prepare for an obesity screening. If you're also having certain blood tests to learn more about your health, you may need to fast (not eat or drink) for a period of time. Your provider will let you know how to prepare.
Usage Guidance
- Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Always discuss your specific results with a qualified healthcare professional.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine. View the original.