Are there limitations to the body weight classification system?
The classification system may underestimate or overestimate health risks in certain adults, such as, highly muscular adults, adults who naturally have a very lean body build, young adults who have not reached full growth, and adults over 65 years of age. Very muscular adults, such as athletes, may have a low percentage of body fat but a large amount of muscle tissue. This can result in a BMI in the overweight range which may over estimate the risk of developing health problems. For people who naturally have a very lean body build or for young adults who have not attained their full growth, a BMI just below the ‘normal weight’ range may not indicate an increased health risk. For adults over age 65, more research is needed to determine if the cut-off points for the ‘normal weight’ range differ in any way from those for younger adults. It is also important to note that BMI and WC are only one part of a health risk assessment. To further clarify risk, other factors need to be considered as
