Baseline measurements

Weight

To start with, your GP will want to find out your weight and see if it falls into a healthy range for your height. To do this, they will use your weight divided by your height to calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI).

BMI

This is a calculation that uses your height and weight to see whether your weight is within a healthy range. Body Mass Index is calculated as your weight (in kilograms) divided by the square of your height (in metres) or BMI = kg/m².

BMI is a widely used measurement for measuring healthy weight but there can be other factors that need to be considered when using this. Muscle is much denser than fat so someone that has a lot of muscle can find themselves classified as overweight or obese, even though they are a healthy weight. See the NHS website for more information on BMI.

Healthy BMI range for high-risk ethnicities (e.g. South Asian, African-Caribbean) are slightly different.

Waist measurement

Along with BMI, your GP will probably measure your waist. This is a good way to check that you’re not carrying too much fat around your stomach and your vital organs, which increases your risk of developing other health problems, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers.

To measure your waist, watch the video below or follow these steps:

1. Start at the top of your hip bone, then bring the tape measure all the way around your body, level with your belly button.

2. Make sure it’s not too tight and that it’s straight, even at the back. Don’t hold your breath while measuring.

3. Check the number on the tape measure right after you exhale

The classifications for target waist circumferences are given below, again it’s important to note that these differ slightly for high-risk ethnicities (e.g. South Asian, African-Caribbean ).

If your weight falls in the overweight or obese range, you might want to think about ways to help with weight management. This would definitely help you reduce your risk.

Have a look at our video below to hear some practical advice on weight management:

Other measures

You may also have your blood pressure measured and some blood tests, just to check for any health conditions that may be related to your weight.

Your GP might also ask you to complete a food and activity diary so that your eating patterns and habits can be identified.