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Am I overweight?
For adults, overweight and obesity ranges are determined by using weight and height to calculate a number called the “body mass index” (BMI). BMI is used because, for most people, it correlates with their amount of body fat.
- An adult who has a BMI between 25 and 29.9 is considered overweight.
- An adult who has a BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese.
- The CDC offers an online body-mass index calculator.
What are the risks of being overweight?
Currently, two-thirds of the adult U.S. population is considered overweight or obese, with experts calling the problem an “epidemic.” Both genetic and environmental factors play a role, with overeating and sedentary lifestyles contributing to the problem. Being overweight can cause a number of other medical problems, including diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, heart disease, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis and/or depression.
What are the benefits of participating in a weight loss study?
Volunteers in weight loss studies at Baptist Health Center for Clinical Research have access to new therapies for weight loss before they become available to the public. Studies vary between three months to several years in length and typically involve a decreased calorie diet and an exercise program.
The accountability of regular office visits, coupled with routine educational visits with our registered dietician, enable our volunteers to be successful with their weight loss goals, regardless of whether they are on study drug or placebo.
For more information on weight loss:
Mayo Clinic: Weight Loss Basics
WebMD: How to Lose Weight Fast and Safely