The heavier children were more likely to have a higher birth weight and legnth, and lower socioeconomic status of parents. The survey used the criteria developed for French children. About 22.5 percent of Americans have a BMI of 30 or more, an increase from 13 percent in 1960 that mostly occurred during the 1990s. The guidelines say that a BMI of 30 is about 30 pounds overweight and that some very muscular people may have a high BMI without health risks. In addition to measuring BMI, health professionals are advised to evaluate a patient's risk factors, such as high blood pressure or blood cholesterol, or family history of obesity-related disease.
Weight loss is recommended in overweight persons with two or more risk factors and in obese persons.
To lose weight, Americans are told the most successful strategies are to increase physical activity, reduce calories, and improve eating and physical activity habits. Cutting back on fat can help, but only if calories also are decreased. The weight loss goal should be about 10 percent of initial weight, with further weight loss if this is successful and warranted, the guidelines advise. Weight loss surgery is a suggested option for those with a BMI of 40 or 35 with coexisting conditions. Obese patients who do not want to lose weight or are not candidates for other reasons are to be counseled on strategies to avoid further weight gain.