Introduction
The Body Mass Index (BMI) is one of the methods for measuring overweight and obesity. It is calculated by dividing the body weight (in kg) by the square of height (in m): kg/m2. For Chinese adults living in Hong Kong, BMI from 23.0 to less than 25.0 kg/m2 is classified as overweight and BMI 25.0 kg/m2 or above is classified as obese.
Obesity increases the risk for a number of chronic diseases, such as hypertension, heart diseases, hypercholesterolaemia, diabetes mellitus, cerebrovascular disease, gall bladder disease, osteoarthritis, sleep apnoea and some types of cancer (breast, prostate, colorectal and endometrial).
Situation in Hong Kong
According to the Population Health Survey (PHS) 2020-22 conducted by the Department of Health, 32.6% (26.4% of females and 39.4% of males) of persons aged 15-84 were obese (i.e. BMI ≥ 25.0 kg/m2) and another 22.0% (19.7% of females and 24.6% of males) were overweight (i.e. 23.0 kg/m2 ≤ BMI < 25.0 kg/m2). Obesity and overweight were most common among females aged 65-84 (57.0%) and among males aged 45-54 (74.6%).
Prevention
A balanced diet and regular physical activity are the proven ways to achieve and maintain an ideal body weight.
Related information
You may browse the "Change for Health" website for further advice on physical activity, healthy diet and common killer diseases associated with obesity.