Question:
Does 40 BMI always equal 100 lbs over weight?

I am over the 40 BMI but I don't know if that means I am also the 100 lbs required by my insurance. I don't understand the charts with the wide weight range they have for 5'3" tall. What exactly do I need to weigh to qualify for my insurance? I am driving myself crazy worrying that I am not that 100 lbs. I'm afraid I'll come up 98 or something ridiculus like that. I just don't know where I stand on my weight.    — Linda C. (posted on April 25, 2002)

April 25, 2002
Most surgeons go by either a BMI of 40 or 100 lbs overweight. But it also takes into consideration your hieght, and weight related health problems.
   — Dell H.

April 25, 2002
My insurance states in the handbook that the requirement is 100 lbs. over. But I was qualified with the BMI number, not the weight. I wasn't sure if I was exactly 100 over or not. You are right, the charts don't give a specific number, so you really can't go by that. If you are over 40, you shouldn't have any problems. Good luck.
   — Cheri M.

April 25, 2002
In my case, I am 100 pounds overweight, but because of my height (5'7") my BMI was calculated at 38. I had no problems with insurance approval. Most insurance companies will list their criteria in your benefits book or you can call them and get a copy of the criteria (in writing!). Your doctor can help you with your goal weight if the charts confuse you. I know the charts say for me the ideal weight would be 133-157, a pretty big range. My doc put down 140 for my ideal weight. I am guessing here, but with you being at 5'3" with a BMI over 40, I'm pretty sure that will come out to over 100 pounds, even if the doc puts down the highest weight from the chart - which he probably will not do.
   — Ali M

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