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Learn about Overweight / Obesity
Learn about Diabetes
Learn about Heart Disease
Other Resources for a Healthy Life
What is Overweight/Obesity?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offer the following:
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Overweight and obesity are both labels for ranges of weight that are greater than what is generally considered healthy for a given height. The terms also identify ranges of weight that have been shown to increase the likelihood of certain diseases and other health problems |
NOTE: Overweight may or may not be due to increases in body fat. It may also be due to an increase in lean muscle. For example, professional athletes or military personnel may be very lean and muscular, with very little body fat, yet they may weigh more than others of the same height. While they may qualify as "overweight" due to their large muscle mass, they are not necessarily fat.
What is BMI?
BMI stands for Body Mass Index. It is a number that shows body weight adjusted for height. BMI can be calculated with simple math using inches and pounds, or meters and kilograms.
For adults aged 20 years or older, BMI falls into one of these categories:
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BMI
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Weight Status
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| Below 18.5 |
Underweight |
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BMI Chart |
| 18.5 - 24.9 |
Normal Weight |
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| 25.0 - 29.9 |
Overweight |
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Calculate my BMI* |
| 30.0 and Above |
Obese |
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Health Problems Related to Overweight / Obesity
- High Blood Pressure
- Diabetes
- Gallstones
- Arthritis
- Some types of cancer
- Depression and low self esteem
Source: CDC Health Consequences*
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- High Cholesterol
- Heart Disease
- Joint Pain
- Trouble breathing during sleep
- Bladder control problems
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*By following the above links, you will be leaving the Department of Veterans Affairs website.
Overweight / Obesity Resources
Overweight / Obesity Information - for kids, teens and clinicians
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