What Is It? Obesity is an excess of body fat. It is difficult to
directly measure body fat. Body mass index (BMI) is a popular
method of defining a healthy weight. BMI should be used as a
guide, along with waist size, to help estimate the amount of
body fat. BMI estimates a healthy weight based on your height.
Because it considers height as well as weight, it is a more
accurate guide than body weight alone. To calculate your BMI: 1.
Multiply your weight in pounds by 703 2. Divide that answer by
your height in inches 3. Divide that answer by your height in
inches again Then use the chart below to see what category your
BMI falls into. 18.5 - 24.9 25.0 - 29.9 30.0 - 39.9 Obesity can
shorten your life. It can also put you at risk of developing a
number of conditions. These include: Many other health risks are
higher for people who are obese. These risks may increase as the
degree of obesity increases. Where you carry the extra weight is
also important. People who carry extra weight around their waist
may be more