Obesity

Along with a regular medical checkup, you may have some tests to check on your health.

Your doctor may want to do blood tests to check for type 2 diabetes, thyroid or liver problems, and high cholesterol or high triglyceride levels.

Your doctor will check your blood pressure, ask about any medicines you are taking, and discuss your medical history and your family's medical history. He or she will ask how active you are, whether you drink alcohol (and how much), your history of weight gain, and how often you have tried to lose weight.

Knowing your Reference waist size Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window along with your body mass index (BMI) can help your doctor check your risk for type 2 diabetes and Reference coronary artery disease (CAD) Opens New Window.

Tests are available to estimate your Reference body fat percentage (to find out about how much of your weight is fat). This is different from your BMI. With some of these tests, you may also learn your Reference basal metabolic rate (BMR) Opens New Window. Knowing your BMR can help your doctor or registered dietitian plan how many calories you need each day.

Early detection

Doctors use BMI to help Reference screen for unhealthy weight. If you have a BMI of 30 or higher, your extra weight is putting your health in danger. If you are Asian, your health may be at risk with a BMI of 27.5 or higher.^{Reference 2}

Use the Reference Interactive Tool: Is Your BMI Increasing Your Health Risks? Reference to find your BMI.

If you're concerned about your child's weight

If you have concerns that your child is Reference overweight Opens New Window or at risk of becoming so, ask your doctor to review your child's growth charts and medical history with you. If your child's BMI and growth pattern suggest a weight problem, your doctor will give your child Reference an exam to look for problems that can cause weight gain. He or she may ask questions about Reference eating and exercise habits. Regular checkups will also be important over time.

Use the Reference Interactive Tool: What Is Your Child's BMI? Reference to find out the BMI of your child age 2 or older.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.