BMI of 36 is Classified as Obesity Class II
A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 36 is definitively classified as obesity, specifically Class II obesity, which is associated with high to very high health risks. 1
BMI Classification System
According to established international guidelines, BMI classifications are as follows:
- Underweight: BMI < 18.5 kg/m²
- Normal weight: BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m²
- Overweight: BMI 25.0-29.9 kg/m²
- Obesity Class I: BMI 30.0-34.9 kg/m²
- Obesity Class II: BMI 35.0-39.9 kg/m² (where a BMI of 36 falls)
- Obesity Class III: BMI ≥ 40 kg/m² 1
Health Implications of Class II Obesity
A BMI of 36 carries significant health implications:
- Disease Risk: BMI in this range is associated with "very high" risk for developing conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease 1
- Mortality Risk: Overall mortality begins to increase with BMI levels greater than 25 kg/m² and increases most dramatically as BMI levels surpass 30 kg/m² 1
- Cardiovascular Events: In adults aged 40-59 years, cardiovascular event rates were 20.21 per 1000 person-years in men with BMI 30-39.9 compared to 13.72 in men with normal BMI; and 9.97 per 1000 person-years in women with BMI 30-39.9 compared to 6.37 in women with normal BMI 1
Additional Risk Assessment
While BMI of 36 definitively indicates obesity, comprehensive risk assessment should include:
- Waist Circumference: For more precise risk stratification, waist circumference should be measured (high risk is ≥102 cm/40 inches for men, ≥88 cm/35 inches for women) 1
- Comorbidity Assessment: Evaluation for obesity-related conditions such as sleep apnea, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and osteoarthritis 1
Important Considerations
- BMI Limitations: While BMI of 36 is clearly in the obese range, it's worth noting that BMI has limitations as it doesn't directly measure body fat or account for differences in muscle mass 1, 2
- Clinical Obesity Definition: Beyond just BMI classification, clinical obesity is characterized by alterations in function of tissues and organs due to excess adiposity 3
- Weight Management Benefits: Even modest weight loss (10% of initial body weight) can significantly reduce risk factors for chronic diseases including hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and hyperglycemia 1
A BMI of 36 requires medical attention as it represents a significant health risk, and evidence-based interventions should be considered to reduce morbidity and mortality risks associated with this level of obesity.