Experts have as a distinct illness, referring to it as "clinical obesity" due to the risks and complications it poses to an individual's health. At the same time, those who are obese but do not exhibit complications are categorized as having "pre-clinical obesity." 

The introduction of these new categories aids experts in diagnosing different obesity groups and providing optimal treatment plans for each. They urged against using traditional body mass index (BMI) measurements for diagnosis. They recommended using alternative metrics such as waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, or bone density scans for a more accurate diagnosis. 

Wael Break, a general surgeon at Quttainah Specialized Hospital, explained to Khaleej Times the factors determining the type of obesity and the criteria used for diagnosis. He said: is a disease, indicating signs of its impact on bodily organs—evident through conditions such as heart disease, shortness of breath, or joint pain — along with effects on an individual's

"Pre-clinical obesity occurs when there is an increased risk of developing clinical obesity, characterised by while maintaining the function of other tissues and organs,” he added, noting: “When we encounter a patient with clinical obesity, we have more treatment options available, including surgical interventions, based on their BMI.”

Wael Break. Photo: Supplied

Dr. Anu Wilson, an endocrinologist at Aster Clinic in Dubai, said traditional methods relying solely on BMI often result in unnecessary treatments for some individuals while overlooking those needing help. The term "pre-clinical obesity" was introduced to denote cases where a person’s organs usually function, even with a higher BMI, thus not requiring active medical management.

She elaborated on the significance of the waist-to-hip ratio, explaining that it reflects where fat is stored in the body. Excess visceral fat is linked to higher risks of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and other health issues —even in individuals with normal BMI. Therefore, the waist-to-hip ratio is a better health risk indicator than BMI, especially for those who may appear normal-weight but carry excess abdominal fat.

Dr. Anu Wilson. Photo: Supplied

Additionally, it’s crucial to note that BMI does not account for bone health in obese individuals and fails to differentiate between lean and fatty tissues. Bone density scans use low-dose X-rays to accurately assess bone mass, lean tissue, and body fat distribution, providing a clearer picture of an individual’s health.

“With the new classification, individuals with pre-clinical obesity warrant monitoring without immediate medical intervention, thereby preventing over-diagnosis and over-treatment,” Dr Wilson stated. 

She believes that distinguishing between clinical and pre-clinical obesity allows for more personalized treatment plans, avoids unnecessary interventions, and reduces stigma for some. Early identification of pre-clinical obesity enables education and monitoring to prevent progression to clinical obesity, assuring patients that not all individuals classified as obese according to traditional criteria are necessarily unhealthy.

Dr. Parag M. Rane, a general and laparoscopic surgeon at Zulekha Hospital Dubai, emphasised: “classifying obesity as a distinct disease can significantly reduce the stigma surrounding it.”

He advocates for and notes the importance of counseling them and their parents about future health issues related to obesity, such as diabetes and heart disease. This proactive approach can help mitigate the stigma that individuals with obesity may face throughout their lives.

Dr. Parag M. Rane. Photo: Supplied

He pointed out hurtful labels, bullying, and social discrimination against people with obesity can be the greatest stigma they endure. “This discrimination occurs in various settings — at home among siblings, in schools among peers, and in — leading to decreased self-esteem, social withdrawal, feelings of loneliness, depression, and even substance abuse, which can result in serious psychological challenges.”

Dr. Parag advised: “Think carefully before describing anyone as fat. An individual is not labeled as obese based solely on their weight; it is essential to consider their body mass index and visceral fat content."