Determination of Relative Risk Status Based on Overweight and Obesity Parameters

The table, below, defines relative risk categories according to BMI and waist circumference. It is important to note that these categories denote relative risk, not absolute risk. They relate to the need to institute weight loss therapy, and do not directly define the required intensity of risk factor modification. The latter is determined by estimation of absolute risk based on the presence of associated disease or risk factors.

Table IV-2: Classification of Overweight and Obesity by
BMI, Waist Circumference and Associated Disease Risk*

* Disease risk for type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and CVD.
+ Increased waist circumference can also be a marker for increased risk even in persons of normal weight.