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**The Weighty Issue: Understanding Body Composition and Health Risks**

When it comes to our overall health and wellbeing, many of us are aware of the importance of maintaining a healthy weight. However, there’s more to the story than just looking at the number on the scale. Body composition, or the proportion of fat to lean mass, plays a significant role in our health risks.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), excess body fat is associated with a range of health problems, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. In fact, the WHO estimates that over 39% of adults worldwide are overweight, with a further 13% classified as obese.

But what does it mean to be overweight or obese? The answer lies in body mass index (BMI), which is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in metres squared. For adults, a BMI of 25 or higher is considered overweight, while a BMI of 30 or higher is classified as obese.

However, BMI has its limitations. For example, athletes may have a high muscle mass, which can skew their BMI reading, even if they’re not necessarily carrying excess fat. On the other hand, individuals with a larger bone structure may have a higher BMI reading without necessarily being overweight.

So, what’s a better way to assess body composition? The good news is that there are several methods available, including:

1. **Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA)**: This non-invasive test uses low-level X-rays to measure bone density and body composition.
2. **Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA)**: This method uses electrical sensors to measure the resistance of body tissue to an electric current, providing an estimate of body fat percentage.
3. **Skinfold Measurements**: This technique involves measuring the thickness of skin at specific points to estimate body fat percentage.

By understanding our body composition, we can take a more informed approach to our health and wellbeing. Whether we’re looking to lose weight, build muscle, or simply maintain our current physique, having accurate information about our body composition can help us make data-driven decisions.

So, the next time you step on the scale or glance in the mirror, remember that there’s more to body composition than just a number. By taking a closer look at our bodies and understanding the risks associated with excess fat, we can take steps towards a healthier, happier life.

**Sources**

* World Health Organization. (2018). Obesity and overweight.
* Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Adult Obesity Facts.

**Related Links**

* [http://fbaum.unc.edu/lobby/004_Risk_Adjuster/orgstatements_risk.html](http://fbaum.unc.edu/lobby/004_Risk_Adjuster/orgstatements_risk.html)