Keep in mind that BMI is a screening tool; it is not used to diagnose any medical conditions. Instead, it is used as one method to assess a man's weight and his risk for developing certain medical conditions. To determine if excess weight is a health risk, a physician will perform further assessments. According to recent guidelines, assessment of weight involves using three key measures:
BMI
Waist circumference
Risk factors for diseases and conditions associated with obesity.
(Click BMI and Weight for more information on these factors healthcare providers consider as well as medical conditions related to weight.)