The World Health Organisation defines obesity as “abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a risk to health. A body mass index (BMI) over 25 is considered overweight, and over 30 is obese.”
Body Mass Index (BMI) estimates a person’s body fat percentage by multiplying their age by their current weight. This excludes factors such as age, gender and ethnicity, nor does it differentiate between muscle mass and body fat composition. Therefore, this could mean that someone who is naturally tall with a higher percentage of muscle mass, could be perceived as being overweight or obese as per the BMI classification system.
Recognising the limitations of this definition, the editors of The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, a highly regarded independent medical journal, formed a global commission.
Through regular discussions, the group shared insights, experiences, and research to shape a more comprehensive understanding of obesity. Officially introduced in March 2022, the commission received significant recognition and is now endorsed by over 75 international medical organisations committed to improving obesity care.
In January 2025, The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology formally announced a new definition of clinical obesity. It considers other indicators of excess body fat, along with clear signs of how a person’s health may be affected, to provide a more individualised and accurate diagnosis. The new definition also aims to improve the way obesity is diagnosed, as the current approach can make it difficult for people to get the care they need, despite obesity affecting 66 per cent of adults, according to a 2022 Australian Institute of Health & Welfare Study.
The new definition separates obesity into two categories.
By acknowledging these variances, it opens the door to a more accessible and effective management of obesity. Commission member and Chair of the Monash University Department of Surgery, School of Translational Medicine at Alfred Health, Professor Wendy Brown said: “With the new criteria proposed by the Commission, we finally have a medically meaningful way of diagnosing obesity, meaning we can tailor the treatment plan according to the patient’s needs.”
The Lancet’s new definition of obesity also seeks to resolve the long-standing debate over whether it should be considered a disease, an issue that has divided medical experts for years.
By providing a more personalised method of care to patients and acknowledging that there are multiple factors that affect their diagnosis, The Lancet’s new definition of obesity also increases the likelihood of achieving a more sustainable outcome.
Dr Whiting has long employed this holistic strategy to ensure that his patients receive tailored support, addressing not only the physical aspects of weight loss, but also the psychological and lifestyle factors crucial for long-term success.
By offering advanced surgical options alongside a robust support network, Dr Whiting’s practice aims to improve health outcomes and enhance the quality of life for his patients.
Contact our team today to discuss how we can assist with your multidisciplinary weight loss journey.
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This land is Aboriginal land, always was, is, and always will be.
