Obesity and body mass index: Past and future considerations in osteoarthritis research

Obesity is an important topic for the osteoarthritis (OA) scientific community. However, the predominant use of body mass index (BMI) to define obesity in OA research is associated with uncertainties and limitations. These include an inability to discern fat and muscle mass, account for sex-differences in fat distribution, or identify adiposity-related health impairments. A focus on BMI in OA research may influence weight bias in clinical practice and impact disparities in access to effective OA treatments. To ensure that our understanding and approaches to improve health outcomes for individuals with or at risk for OA continues to advance in the next decade, future research will need to consider alternative measures beyond BMI for obesity identification and align with evolving obesity science. OA researchers must be aware of issues associated with weight stigma and work to minimize negative generalizations based on BMI.