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Researchers at LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center are working with the Lancet Commission on Clinical Obesity, in developing new guidelines to determine obesity. Dr. Philip Schauer, the director of the Metamor Institute, says a person’s body mass index is the main tool used to determine if a person is obese, but the updated definition should look at excess body fat.
“What obesity is, is excess body fat, and in particular, certain types of body fat is worse than others. Belly fat versus fat just below the skin.”
The Commission, comprising 56 global experts, aims to reframe obesity as a chronic disease requiring serious management. Schauer says as a physician, its crucial to understand exactly what the disease is.
“because it’s possible to undertreat and overtreat obesity.”
The Commission defines clinical obesity as excess fat causing reduced organ function or impaired daily activities, while pre-clinical obesity involves excess fat without current organ dysfunction but increased risk for future diseases like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular issues. Schauer says this model differentiates care strategies, promoting evidence-based treatments for those affected.
“Nothing should hold us back to really hone in on this disease, obesity, and those with clinical obesity provide them with the tools to improve their lives and for many of them extend their lives.”
The reframing of obesity is designed to ensure all people living with obesity receive appropriate health advice.
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