Watchdog urges regular BMI checkups for millions across England and Wales
Millions of people in England and Wales with a long-term health condition should have their body mass index (BMI) checked regularly to prevent diabetes and heart disease, an NHS watchdog is recommending.
Anyone found to be overweight should talk to sensitive, non-judgmental doctors and nurses about how they can lead a healthier life and stop their excess pounds causing them problems.
The checks should lead to more people being referred to weight management services for help overhauling their diet and lifestyles or being prescribed weight loss drugs.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), which advises the NHS on which treatments represent value for money, hopes its recommendations will help curb obesity.
People with conditions such as diabetes, lung problems and heart failure should have their BMI and waist-to-height ratio assessed and recorded at least once a year, Nice said on Tuesday in draft guidance which is set to be published as a final document in August.
Source: The Guardian, 18 March 2025