Underweight
Underweight
Underweight (/ʌndərweɪt/) is a term used to describe a human body weight that is considered to be below a healthy level.
Etymology
The term "underweight" is derived from the English words "under" and "weight", indicating a weight that is less than the norm or standard.
Definition
An individual is considered to be underweight if their Body Mass Index (BMI) is below 18.5. The BMI is a measurement obtained by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by the square of the person's height in meters.
Causes
Underweight can be caused by a variety of factors, including malnutrition, genetic disorders, chronic diseases, and eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa.
Health Risks
Being underweight can lead to a number of health problems, including osteoporosis, infertility, a weakened immune system, and increased risk of surgical complications.
Treatment
Treatment for being underweight typically involves gaining weight in a healthy manner through a balanced diet and regular exercise. In some cases, treatment may also involve addressing underlying health conditions or mental health issues that may be contributing to the low body weight.
Related Terms
- Body Mass Index
- Malnutrition
- Genetic Disorders
- Chronic Diseases
- Eating Disorders
- Anorexia Nervosa
- Bulimia Nervosa
- Osteoporosis
- Infertility
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Underweight
- Wikipedia's article - Underweight
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