How is BMI used to assess obesity and guide weight management?

BMI is a number calculated from your height and weight. In adults, a BMI of 30 or higher generally falls in the obesity range. A BMI from 25 to less than 30 generally falls in the overweight range. These ranges are screening categories, not a complete diagnosis of your health.

BMI cannot tell muscle from fat or show where body fat is stored. It may be less useful for some people, including those with a large amount of muscle. Adult BMI categories are not used the same way for children and teens. Pregnancy also requires a different approach to weight assessment.

A physician may review your waist size, blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, sleep symptoms, and weight history. These details help put BMI in context. At Verra, a licensed physician in your state decides whether treatment is appropriate. A BMI number alone does not mean you will receive a prescription or that one treatment is right for you.