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What does this tool measure?

Interactive health icon

Click here to find out whether your weight increases your health risksClick here to see an interactive tool..

This interactive tool estimates your risk of weight-related diseases by using your body mass index (BMI) along with your waist measurement and other factors. BMI is an estimate of body fat. The higher the BMI, the greater the risk of some diseases, including high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, stroke, osteoarthritis, some cancers, and type 2 diabetes.

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Health Tools 

Health tools help you make wise health decisions or take action to improve your health.


Interactive tools help people determine health risks, ideal weight, target heart rate, and more.Interactive tools are designed to help people determine health risks, ideal weight, target heart rate, and more.
 Weight and health risks
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What does your score mean?

Your score will appear as one of the following ranges:

  • Healthy weight. Your weight alone does not put you at risk for serious health problems.
  • Moderate risk. Your weight is one reason you are at moderate risk for serious health problems. Talk to your doctor about ways to lower your risk.
  • High risk. Your weight is one reason you are at higher-than-normal risk for serious health problems that could shorten your life. Talk to your doctor about ways to lower your risk.
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What's next?

If you are concerned about your score, talk to your doctor about developing a healthy lifestyle. For more information, see the topic Healthy Weight.

Source: U.S. National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, U.S. National Institutes of Health (2000). The Practical Guide: Identification, Evaluation, and Treatment of Overweight and Obesity in Adults. (NIH Publication No. 00-4084). Available online: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/guidelines/obesity/prctgd_c.pdf.

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References

Other Works Consulted

  • Purnell JQ (2005). Obesity. In DC Dale, DD Federman, eds., ACP Medicine, section 3, chap. 10. New York: WebMD.

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Credits

AuthorCaroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
EditorSusan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate EditorPat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical ReviewerAdam Husney, MD
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerRuth Schneider, MPH, RD
- Diet and Nutrition
Last UpdatedJanuary 7, 2008
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MSLast Updated: January 7, 2008
Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Ruth Schneider, MPH, RD - Diet and Nutrition
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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