BMI can provide an indication of whether you are underweight, normal, overweight or obese. As such BMI is often used to identify possible weight problems in adults. BMI is not and should not be used as a diagnostic tool. A healthcare worker will need to perform further tests to determine if excess weight is a health risk.
The accuracy of BMI can be distorted by a number of factors. These can include:
- Gender
- Bone structure
- Ethnicity
- Muscle mass
- Fitness levels
- Age
BMI does not measure body fat directly but instead includes muscle and fat. This can distort the results. An athlete for example may have a high BMI due to large muscle mass as opposed to high body fatness.
When applying for international health insurance you are likely to be asked your height and weight. If your BMI is over 30 the insurance company may not accept you, can place a loading on the premium or exclude obesity and all related conditions from the policy. With rising obesity levels worldwide insurance companies have in recent times experienced increased levels of claims. A consequence can be that some insurance coverage limits access to treatment. It is imperative that you select an international medical plan that provides sufficient coverage to give you peace of mind for the future. Our expert consultants can help you to do this.
If an individual is overweight this can lead onto many related conditions. These can include high blood pressure, heart disease, cholesterol and diabetes. The costs associated with continuing treatment for these conditions can be very high. The majority of expat medical insurance plans provide cover for chronic conditions. The plans are generally guaranteed renewable, meaning that you can keep your policy for life. They may also include portability, allowing you to take your plan with you if you move countries. Feel free to contact our medical consultants to discuss your health insurance needs further. |
