How is morbid obesity (MO) defined?

How is morbid obesity (MO) defined?

Morbid obesity is defined in terms of body mass index (BMI). BMI is calculated by establishing a ratio between the patient’s weight and height as follows:

Body mass index (BMI) = weight in kg/height in m²

This patient’s BMI is calculated as:

BMI = 136 kg/(1.65 m)² = 50

BMI values are classified as follows:

·  BMI of 18.5–24.9 = normal

·  BMI of 25.0–29.9 = overweight

·  BMI of 30.0–34.9 = class I obesity

·  BMI of 35.0–39.9 = class II obesity

·  BMI of 40.0 or greater = class III obesity.

BMI values of 40 or greater are indications for bariatric surgery. Those with significant comorbidities become acceptable candidates for bariatric surgery at a BMI value of 35.