What is the BMI or Body Mass Index score for obesity?

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2020

Explanation

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines obesity in adults as a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30.0 or greater.
BMI is calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters (kg/m2).
The classification system is used globally to assess health risks associated with body weight.
A BMI of 30 or more is associated with a moderate to very severe risk of comorbidities like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension.

Option A: A BMI range of 20 to 25 is considered within the normal or healthy weight category (specifically 18.5-24.9).
Option B: A BMI of more than 15 is too low a threshold. This would incorrectly classify underweight (less than 18.5) and normal weight individuals as obese.
Option D: A BMI between 13 and 19 primarily falls into the underweight category (less than 18.5).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Body Mass Index (BMI) classification for obesity as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses use BMI as a quick, non-invasive screening tool to identify patients who may be at risk for weight-related health problems.
Calculating and documenting BMI is a standard part of a comprehensive health assessment, guiding patient education on nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle modification.
A high BMI alerts the nurse to monitor for potential comorbidities such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, and type 2 diabetes, and to implement appropriate preventative care.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key terms in the question: 'BMI' or 'Body Mass Index' and 'obesity'.
This is a factual recall question. Access your knowledge of standard medical classifications.
Recall the standard BMI categories: Underweight (<18.5), Normal (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), and Obese (≥30).
Evaluate each option against these standard categories.
Option 'More than 30' directly matches the definition of obesity.
Eliminate the other options as they correspond to normal weight, underweight, or are too broad.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 1 — Subpart C (pp 404-604 of 604) p. 69-71

E6 Medicine Davidson Principles Practice 24e p. 720-722

Practise the full RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2020

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