The UK is culturally diverse, with nearly a fifth of the population in England and Wales coming from ethnic minority groups. At the same time, recent data suggests that 65 per cent of adults in the UK
are overweight or living with obesity. 

There is a clear relationship between body mass index (BMI) and adverse health outcomes. Being overweight is a risk factor for several chronic conditions and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.

Obesity greatly increases the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidaemia. 

Furthermore, obesity can lead to obstructive sleep apnoea and excessive strain on weight-bearing joints, which can aggravate musculoskeletal disorders such as osteoarthritis.

Perhaps most concerning is the strong association between obesity and an increased risk of several cancers. 

The standard BMI scale and cut-off values for overweight and obesity were developed primarily using Caucasian population data.

They were not designed for people from other ethnic backgrounds (including Black, Asian, Brown, dual heritage and indigenous ethnicities, collectively referred to in the UK as ethnic minority groups).

However, there are important differences in health outcomes and risk levels between ethnic groups, which is why BMI thresholds need to take ethnicity into account.