A global panel of experts has proposed a new framework for diagnosing and treating obesity, moving beyond the traditional reliance on body mass index (BMI). The refined approach incorporates additional measures of body fat and health indicators, distinguishing between early (pre-clinical) and advanced (clinical) stages of obesity. Published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology and endorsed by over 75 medical organizations, the framework aims to improve outcomes for over a billion individuals worldwide by reducing stigma, optimizing healthcare resources, and ensuring equitable access to treatment.
The new method also addresses the longstanding debate over whether obesity should be classified as a disease. Researchers argue for a nuanced perspective, recognizing that while some individuals with obesity remain healthy, others experience severe health impacts. They caution that viewing obesity solely as a risk factor may delay care for those who need it, while labeling it as a disease universally risks overdiagnosis and unnecessary interventions.