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BMI for Asian-Australian Women
Health risk can rise at a lower BMI for women of Asian descent. Here are the WHO action points.
Standard vs Asian BMI action points
| Category | Standard WHO | WHO Asian action points |
|---|---|---|
| Underweight | Below 18.5 | Below 18.5 |
| Healthy / low risk | 18.5 – 24.9 | 18.5 – 22.9 |
| Overweight / increased risk | 25 – 29.9 | 23 – 27.4 |
| Obesity / high risk | 30 and over | 27.5 and over |
Why it matters in Australia
Australia has large South Asian, Chinese, Vietnamese, Filipino and other Asian communities. Type 2 diabetes is more common in several of these groups, and often develops at a lower BMI than in people of European descent. Women with a history of gestational diabetes are at higher risk as well.
Practical steps
- Check your waist. Many health services suggest a lower waist target for Asian women, commonly 80 cm or less.
- Ask about a blood glucose or HbA1c test from a younger age if you have risk factors.
- Aim for regular movement and a balanced plate with plenty of vegetables, legumes and wholegrains in place of refined rice, noodles and sugary drinks.
- Culturally specific support is available through many community health services and interpreters via TIS National on 131 450.
Frequently asked questions
What BMI is healthy for Asian-Australian women?
The WHO suggests that people of Asian descent can have higher health risk at lower BMI values. A BMI of 18.5 to 22.9 is considered low risk, 23 to 27.4 increased risk and 27.5 or more high risk. These are public health action points, not diagnoses.
Should I use the standard BMI chart or the Asian cut-offs?
Ask your GP. Australian national reporting uses the standard WHO categories, but many clinicians consider the lower action points for South Asian, East Asian and Southeast Asian women, particularly when screening for type 2 diabetes.
Why is risk higher at a lower BMI?
On average, people of Asian descent carry more body fat, particularly around the organs, at the same BMI. That can raise the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease at lower weights.