BMI range should be adjusted deppending on age

The May 15 issue of American Journal of Epidemiology informs readers that a research team concluded that people older than 80 are in benefit if they are a little overweight.

This conclusion comes as a result of analysis of data taken from over 13,450 residents in the large retirement community in 1981-1985. The participants, whose average age was 73 at the time of the survey, provided their weight and height at age 21 and at the time of the survey.

Compiling all data, the research team discovered:

1. Participants who were underweight at the time of the survey (Body Mass Index below 18.5) had the highest mortality rates, even higher than those individuals who were obese (BMI 30 and higher).
2. Participants who were either obese or overweight at age 21 had increased mortality rates whether they lost the weight by the time of the survey.

What's interesting about these findings is that staying in the 'normal' BMI range during young adulthood is a condition to hope a long life.

Another interesting conclusion is that BMI standards are perfect for younger adults, but may not be appropriate for elderly people and should be age-adjusted.









NOTE: The Information on this site is provided for information only, and is not meant to substitute for the advice of your own physician or other medical professional.






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