For years, obesity has been defined using Body Mass Index (BMI), a simple calculation of weight divided by height squared. If your BMI is 30 or above, you’re considered obese—sounds simple, right? But here’s the thing: BMI doesn’t tell the whole story.

Health risks from obesity depend on more than just your weight. Factors like how much fat you have, where it’s stored, and whether it’s causing health problems matter more. For instance, an athlete with lots of muscle might have a high BMI but no health issues. On the other hand, someone with extra fat around their waist might face serious health risks even if their BMI is normal.

That’s why experts are shifting away from using BMI alone to define obesity. They’ve introduced two new categories:

1. Clinical Obesity: This is when excess fat leads to health problems like breathlessness, joint pain, or high blood pressure. It can also make daily tasks harder, like walking or dressing.
   
   
2. Pre-clinical Obesity: Here, someone has extra fat but no current health issues. However, they’re at higher risk of developing conditions like heart disease or diabetes in the future.

The new focus is on personalized care. If you’re in the clinical obesity category, treatments might include dietary changes, exercise, medication, or even surgery. If you’re in the pre-clinical category, the goal is prevention through healthier habits and regular check-ups.

This new approach isn’t just about better treatment—it’s about changing how we think about obesity. It’s not just about body size but overall health, reducing stigma, and offering the right support for everyone.