What is the difference between overweight and obese?

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Weight Watchers® answered:

The difference between obesity and being overweight comes down to Body Mass Index (BMI). A BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese. Overweight is defined by a BMI of 25-29.9. Obesity is a medical condition in which excess body fat has accumulated to the extent that it may have a negative effect on health, leading to reduced life expectancy and/or increased health conditions.

Weight Watchers offers a comprehensive approach to weight loss that can help you reach your goals. Learn more about Weight Watchers and how to join.
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The difference between obesity and being overweight comes down to Body Mass Index (BMI). A BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese. Overweight is defined by a BMI of 25-29.9. Obesity is a medical condition in which excess body fat has... More
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) answered:
For adults, overweight and obesity ranges are determined by using weight and height to calculate a number called the "body mass index" (BMI). BMI is used because, for most people, it correlates with their amount of body fat.
- An adult who has a BMI between 25 and 29.9 is overweight
- An adult who has a BMI of 30 or higher is obese.
It is important to remember that although BMI correlates with the amount of body fat, BMI does not directly measure body fat. As a result, some people, such as athletes, may have a BMI that identifies them as overweight even though they do not have excess body fat.

The presence of the CDC logo and CDC content on this page should not be construed to imply endorsement by the US Government of any commercial products or services, or to replace the advice of a medical professional. The mark “CDC” is licensed under authority of the PHS.
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More Related Answers from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
For adults, overweight and obesity ranges are determined by using weight and height to calculate a number called the "body mass index" (BMI). BMI is used because, for most people, it correlates with their amount of body fat. An adult who has a BMI... More
HealthyWomen answered:

The defining characteristic in both overweight and obese people is excess body fat. The difference is a matter of degree.

Healthcare professionals use a simple calculation called the body mass index (BMI) to determine body weight relative to height. In adults, the BMI calculation strongly correlates with total body fat content in adults. Overweight is defined as having a BMI between 25 and 29.9. Obesity is defined as having a BMI of 30 or more.
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The defining characteristic in both overweight and obese people is excess body fat. The difference is a matter of degree. Healthcare professionals use a simple calculation called the body mass index (BMI) to determine body weight relative to... More