Which metric is most commonly used to assess overweight and obesity in adults?

The Body Mass Index (BMI) is the most commonly used metric for assessing overweight and obesity in adults due to its simplicity and effectiveness. BMI is calculated using an individual's height and weight, providing a quick way to categorize people into different weight categories—underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obese. This categorization is based on established cut-off points which help in identifying individuals who may be at risk for health problems related to their weight.

BMI is widely recognized and used by health professionals and public health organizations because it provides a broad indication of body fatness for the general population, making it useful for screening purposes. Its ease of measurement and widespread acceptance contributes to its popularity as a tool for assessing weight status in adults.

While waist circumference, body fat percentage, and skinfold thickness are important measurements and can provide additional insights into health and body composition, they are less commonly used in general assessments due to the need for more sophisticated techniques or equipment. BMI serves as a foundational measure that can prompt further investigation when necessary.