Researchers are investigating alternative methods to BMI for diagnosing obesity.

What it means

This Scientific American article reports on a growing expert consensus that BMI alone is insufficient for diagnosing obesity. Researchers are proposing alternative diagnostic criteria, such as combining BMI with waist circumference, body fat percentage, or clinical assessments of metabolic health, to more accurately identify individuals at risk of obesity-related complications. The article likely draws on a 2025 Lancet commission report and recent studies advocating for a shift away from BMI.

Accuracy & sourcesGrounded

The claim is well-supported: Scientific American is a reputable secondary source reporting on primary research and expert recommendations, including a Lancet commission report and peer-reviewed studies. The reporting is closely tied to these primary sources, making the claim solid.

How new

This is genuinely new coverage from November 14, 2026, reflecting ongoing developments in the field.

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