Question

Signs of illness, diminished work capacity, and poor reproductive function become apparent when the BMI is below ___

a. 20
b. 17
c. 14
d. 18.5
e. 12

Answer 1

The signs of illness and poor health that the student asked about are noticeable when the BMI is below 18.5, which is considered underweight.

Step-by-step explanation:

Signs of illness, diminished work capacity, and poor reproductive function typically become apparent when the Body Mass Index (BMI) falls below 18.5. Thus, the correct answer to the student's question is d. 18.5.

For additional context, a BMI below 18.5 is generally considered underweight. In contrast, a BMI of 25 to 29.9 is deemed overweight; a BMI of 30 or higher constitutes obesity; and morbid obesity is defined as a BMI of 40 or more, or a BMI of 35 or more with obesity-related health problems. These thresholds are instrumental in assessing population health but are less informative for individuals, such as athletes, who may have high BMIs due to increased muscle mass rather than fat.