BMI Calculator – Body Mass Index

For many individuals, being slightly overweight can be resolved with some changes in dietary and exercise habits. For people who are considered obese, losing weight can be quite a bit more challenging. A body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher is an indication of obesity. Below, you will find a BMI calculator along with a chart that can tell you where your body mass index result may fall in the range of classifications, which goes from “underweight” to “super morbid obesity.” A BMI of 35 to 39.9 indicates severe obesity, while a BMI of 40 to 49.9 indicates morbid obesity. An individual who is classified as “morbidly obese” is typically about 100 pounds over the weight that is considered ideal for one’s height. When severe obesity is reached, it can be exceptionally difficult for an individual to lose weight and maintain that weight loss. In fact, only about 5% of people who have severe obesity are able to achieve long-term significant weight loss. The National Institutes of Health recognize weight loss surgery as the only effective type of long-term weight loss for individuals who are diagnosed with severe or morbid obesity. 

If weight loss treatment sounds like it may be an option for your needs, please don’t hesitate to contact our practice.

Body Mass Index Measurement for Bariatric Surgery Candidacy 

To qualify as a candidate for bariatric surgery, one’s body mass index measurement is factored into the criteria that individuals must meet. In 2022, the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) along with the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO) announced new BMI guidelines for determining candidacy that are lower than they were in previous years, allowing more patients to be considered for bariatric surgery. They are as follows: 

• BMI of 35 or greater with no co-morbidities (diseases/conditions associated with obesity) – Potential Candidate  
• BMI of 30 or greater with co-morbidity/co-morbidities – Potential Candidate 

The specific type of weight loss surgery treatment for patients who are ideal candidates will be determined based on a variety of factors, including the patient’s current medical condition, medical needs, and weight loss goals. 

Co-Morbidities 

Co-morbidities are medical conditions that are connected to an individual’s weight. A person with a BMI that is 30 or greater and has at least one co-morbidity may be eligible for certain weight loss surgery procedures. While the following is not a complete list, it contains some of the more common co-morbidities among individuals who may be candidates for bariatric surgery: 

• Hypertension (high blood pressure) 
• Type-2 diabetes 
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) 
• Osteoarthritis 
• Obstructive sleep apnea 
• High cholesterol 
• Back pain or joint pain 
• Soft-tissue infections 
• Venous stasis disease 

Our experienced bariatric surgeon, James Parrish, MD, can meet with you for an initial consultation to discuss your candidacy and explore treatment options. If you have questions, or if you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Parrish, please contact us today.