The main diagnostic test for obesity — the body mass index — accounts for only height and weight, leaving out a slew of factors that influence body fat and health.

The main diagnostic test for obesity — the body mass index — accounts for only height and weight, leaving out a slew of factors that influence body fat and health.

  • OhNoMoreLemmy@lemmy.ml
    5·
    1 year ago

    I mean BMI is also useful for comparing individuals in certain instances. That’s why doctor’s use it.

    It’s a crappy measure, but it’s good enough for a range of use. You just have to be thoughtful enough to say, yeah it’s not going to work for this person.

    I’m not anti BMI, I’m just opposed to people repeating statements like “BMI is useful to compare populations” which don’t really mean anything.