The Decibel The problems with linking weight and health
Feb 20, 2025
Dr. Kelsey Ioannoni, a critical health sociologist and fat studies scholar, dives into the complexities of weight and health. She challenges the conventional Body Mass Index (BMI), discussing its historical shortcomings and the rise of the Body Roundness Index (BRI). The conversation highlights the biases plus-sized individuals face in Canadian healthcare, emphasizing the need for respectful, holistic care. With personal stories, Ioannoni calls for a shift in how we view health, advocating for understanding beyond mere numbers.
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BMI Origins
- The BMI was created 150 years ago by Adolphe Quetelet, a Belgian mathematician.
- It was originally designed to determine the average Western European man, not individual health.
BMI Criticisms
- BMI doesn't accurately reflect body fat and fails to account for ethnic diversity and body composition changes.
- It's considered a racist tool by some scholars, reflecting biases in its development.
BMI and Athletes
- Athletes like Ilona Maher, a muscular rugby player, are categorized as overweight or obese based on BMI.
- This highlights BMI's inaccuracy in assessing health for individuals with high muscle mass.