The way we measure obesity is evolving, and the recent findings from The Endocrine Society Annual Meeting 2023 are making waves!

A groundbreaking study led by Dr. Visaria and his team has spotlighted the limitations of relying solely on Body Mass Index (BMI) as the indicator for obesity. The results are astounding: when Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scanning, the gold standard for body composition measurement, was used, twice as many adults were identified as having obesity compared to BMI calculations.

The numbers speak for themselves:

• DEXA scans classified 74% of participants as having obesity based on body fat, while BMI calculations recognized only 36% as obese.
• Even individuals with normal-range BMIs weren't exempt, with 43% found to have obesity when assessed by DEXA scans.
• Women faced a significantly higher prevalence of undiagnosed obesity, with a 59% obesity rate detected by DEXA among women with normal-range BMIs.

So, what's the deal with BMI? It's a basic measure using height and weight, suitable for general population assessments but not ideal for individuals. In contrast, DEXA scanning offers a personalized view, considering factors like fat, lean mass, and bone mass. It's a game-changer for understanding chronic disease risk.

Dr. Visaria boldly declared, "We're at the start of the end of BMI," advocating for more comprehensive approaches. Alternatives like waist circumference measurements and DEXA scanning are gaining momentum, with DEXA standing out as the gold standard due to its precision and speed. It's time to shift the way we assess obesity!