This is measured by dividing a person's weight in kilos by the square of their height in metres. (Height should be measured without shoes and weight should be measured without clothes.)

A BMI result:

less than 20 means body weight is below normal levels.
between 20 and 25 is in the normal weight range and spans approximately 2 stone.
above 25 is classified as overweight.
above 30 means that body weight exceeds the normal range by 20% and falls into the obese category.

For example, if you weigh 9 stone (57.3kg) and are 5ft 5 inches (1.65 metres), you will have a BMI of 21 (57.3kg divided by 2.7 (1.65 squared) = 21), which means that this person's body weight is within the normal range.

What health risks are associated with obesity?

Obesity is not just a cosmetic issue; it is a serious disease that left untreated may have serious side effects. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes (type 2), high blood fat levels and heart disease. The risk of developing gall bladder problems is also higher for those who are overweight or obese, especially women.

Where you carry the excess fat on your body is also important in terms of health risks. Over the past decade, obesity research has identified two basic body shapes: the apple shape and the pear shape. Apple shapes tend to carry most fat around their stomach whereas pear shapes store more body fat around the thighs and bottom. Research shows that people who are apple shaped carry greater health risks than people who are pear shaped.

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