Researchers use an estimate of an individual’s relative fat and muscle mass, called body mass index, to define obesity. To find your BMI, check out this calculator.
Related KHN Story
Few Insurers Provide Coverage For Weight Loss Treatment
Adults with a BMI of between 25 and 30 are considered overweight. Those with a BMI over 30 are obese.
Morbid obesity applies to adults with a BMI over 40 or who are more than 100 pounds overweight.
Source: The National Library of Medicine.
KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF—an independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism. Learn more about KFF.Some elements may be removed from this article due to republishing restrictions. If you have questions about available photos or other content, please contact khnweb@kff.org.
