GP surgeries across the UK have the BMI (Body mass index) chart hanging on walls in almost every consultation room. They use this as a reference point to tell us, the patient, we are either over, under or within our target weight.

History: A Belgian scientist/statistician in 1796 who had no medical qualifications was using the weight/height ratio for research purposes in human population. At the time he stated it was not to be used for individual diagnosis.

This tool was then adopted by Eugenics and later, insurance companies to determine the ideal or healthy human form.

For more information: listen here 

The BMI chart is not only outdated, but it also does not take into account gender, genetics, ethnicity or any other physical attributes that would impact a persons height or weight.

So why are Doctor’s still using it?

In a world where body image is already a frightening pandemic of its own, the last thing we need is our family GP telling us we are over or under weight based on a chart that should never have been used in this way.

I propose a ban on the use of the BMI chart across the UK and I invite you to sign this petition if you support this cause.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If the BMI chart continues to be used in this way it sends the message that there is an 'ideal' body weight. This is resulting in healthy individuals under eating, over exercising and damaging their health, all to position themselves on a scale that was not designed for this purpose. 

It is damaging the health of otherwise healthy individuals.

This chart should have been removed yesterday. Let's get it done!