Height/weight tables and body mass index (BMI) are used to identify a need for weight reduction. However, use of these methods may not correctly identify individuals needing weight loss. The frequency with which individuals were inappropriately classified based on height/weight tables and BMI when compared to body fat composition was determined. The majority of subjects, male and female, were classified correctly. However, using percent body fat as the standard, 20% to 25% of subjects were misclassified. Most of those misclassified had normal body fat but height/weight tables and BMI classified them as overweight. Clinicians should consider the limitations of height/weight tables when assessing weight and identifying individuals who would benefit from weight loss.
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