Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

Which of the following would be classified as morbidly obese?

1. 50-year-old white male, 22 kg over weight, suffered 1 heart attack

2. 26-year-old Hispanic female with a BMI of 41

3. 48-year-old African American consulting a specialist for bariatric surgery

4. 60-year-old white male, 225 lb

The correct answer is: 26-year-old Hispanic female with a BMI of 41

The classification of obesity typically utilizes Body Mass Index (BMI) as a key metric. A BMI of 30 or greater indicates obesity, while a BMI of 40 or higher defines morbid obesity, which significantly increases health risks such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. In the example provided, the 26-year-old Hispanic female with a BMI of 41 clearly falls into the category of morbid obesity. Her BMI measurement indicates she has a significant amount of excess body weight relative to height, which is directly linked to health complications. This categorization implies a greater urgency for health interventions, lifestyle changes, or potential surgical options, making this option distinctly identifiable as morbidly obese. The other choices do not provide sufficient evidence to classify them as morbidly obese, primarily because they either lack a formal BMI measurement or do not meet the threshold of 40. Understanding BMI's role in these classifications helps healthcare professionals approach weight management and treatment planning effectively.