Document Type
Article
Publication Date
12-1-2025
Abstract
Introduction
Body mass index is an imperfect measure of excess adiposity but is ingrained in both research and clinical practice to define and diagnose adult obesity. The addition of waist circumference measure is recommended to fully capture obesity-related health risks at a population level. The latest reframing of obesity by the Lancet Commission relies on body mass index and waist circumference, as well as organ dysfunction and functional limitations, to differentiate between preclinical and clinical obesity.
Methods
Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2005–2018), we adhere to the proposed redefinition to examine obesity trends in the adult U.S. population.
Results
In line with previously published estimates of obesity defined solely by body mass index, we show that the prevalence of both preclinical and clinical obesity increased between 2005 and 2018. However, the prevalence of preclinical obesity calculated by BMI plus WC is lower than the estimates derived from using BMI or WC as the sole metrics.
Conclusion
Using the Commission’s added measures yields refined population estimates for two categories—preclinical and clinical obesity. These updated estimates separate preclinical cases—at elevated risk and eligible for prevention—from those meeting clinical-obesity criteria, who require intervention.
Recommended Citation
Kranjac, A.W., Kranjac, D. Updated prevalence estimates of obesity among adults in the United States, 2005–2018. BMC Res Notes 19, 2 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13104-025-07591-8
Peer Reviewed
1
Copyright
The authors
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.
Comments
This article was originally published in BMC Research Notes, volume 19, in 2026. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13104-025-07591-8