Being Underweight Kills More Than Obesity

A new study reminds us that weight management is a two way street. Clinically underweight people have been found to be more likely to die from complications of their condition than obese individuals, according to researchers.

The study, published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Public Health, found that compared to people of a healthy weight, the excessively skinny face nearly twice the risk of death. Obese people, on the other hand, face a 120 percent increase of risk of death, compared to individuals of normal weight.

Researchers determined these numbers after conducting a comprehensive review of data from more than 50 previous studies concerning weight and morbidity.

Data was collected on individuals between these various studies for more than five years and focused on the association between body-mass-index (BMI) and fatalities related to weight-borne complications.

After gathering and organizing the data, the study's research team was able to determine that patients of all ages with a BMI of 18.5 and lower -- classified as clinically underweight -- face a 1.8 times greater risk of dying, compare to patients with a BMI between 18.5 and 25.9.

Obese patients proved to only face a 1.2 greater risk of dying from weight-related complications, compared to the same "normal" weight demographic.

With these findings, the researchers were able to conclude that being clinically underweight is actually more dangerous to the average person than being overweight. Still, the researcher did admit that obesity, one of the leading causes of death in America, should remain a top priority.

Still, they argue that health officials, physicians, and even every-day people should be mindful of the fact that the fight against the obesity epidemic isn't just about getting thinner, it's about staying healthy.

The study was published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Public Health on March 28.