Body Mass Index is the most widely used weight screening tool worldwide, but Pakistani and South Asian adults need to interpret their results differently from the global standard. Research consistently shows that people of South Asian descent develop obesity-related diseases at lower BMI values than people of European descent.

How BMI Is Calculated

BMI = Weight in kg divided by Height in meters squared. For someone weighing 75 kg at 1.70 m height: BMI = 75 / (1.70 x 1.70) = 75 / 2.89 = 25.95.

The standard WHO categories are: Below 18.5 = Underweight, 18.5-24.9 = Normal, 25-29.9 = Overweight, 30 and above = Obese.

Pakistan-Specific Thresholds

For Pakistani and South Asian adults, the Asia-Pacific guidelines recommend lower thresholds: Normal (18.5-22.9), Overweight (23-27.4), Obese (27.5 and above).

This matters practically: a Pakistani adult with BMI 24 is in the "normal" range by global standards but "overweight" by Asia-Pacific standards, and may already have elevated diabetes and cardiovascular risk. Pakistani adults should use the Asia-Pacific thresholds.

Why the Difference?

At the same BMI, South Asians tend to have higher body fat percentage and more visceral fat (fat stored around internal organs) compared to Europeans. Visceral fat releases inflammatory compounds and drives insulin resistance in ways subcutaneous fat does not. This explains why Pakistan has one of the world's highest rates of type 2 diabetes despite not being classified as an extremely obese population by standard BMI cutoffs.

BMI Limitations

BMI does not distinguish fat from muscle. A muscular person may have a higher BMI than their health risk warrants. It also does not capture fat distribution. Waist circumference is a useful supplement: Pakistani health guidelines suggest men keep waist under 90 cm and women under 80 cm.

What to Do Based on Your BMI

If overweight or obese: prioritize reducing refined carbohydrates (white rice, white bread, sugary drinks are particularly high in Pakistani diets), get 30 minutes of brisk walking daily, and check blood glucose and blood pressure annually. Even a 5-10% weight reduction produces meaningful health improvements.

If underweight: increase meal frequency and nutritional density — more whole grains, legumes, dairy, and lean protein. Consult a doctor if weight loss has been unintentional.

Conclusion

Use the Asia-Pacific BMI thresholds (overweight at 23+, obese at 27.5+) rather than the global standard for Pakistani adults. Supplement your BMI with waist circumference measurement and annual blood glucose and blood pressure checks for a complete health picture.