In terms of overall health risks, which BMI range raises significant concern for mortality?

The Body Mass Index (BMI) range that raises significant concern for mortality is closer to the higher ranges, particularly those categorized as overweight and obese. A BMI of 30.0 to 34.9 is classified as obese class I. This range is generally associated with increased risks for various health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

Research consistently indicates that as BMI increases, so does the risk for premature death and other health complications. Those within the 30.0 to 34.9 BMI range have a significant elevation in mortality risk compared to individuals with lower BMI, especially when lifestyle factors such as physical activity and diet are taken into consideration.

While other BMI ranges, such as those classified as severely obese (BMI 40.0 and above), do carry higher risks, the question focuses on the range that first raises significant concern for mortality within the spectrum of obesity. Generally, the BMI range of 30.0 to 34.9 is recognized as the threshold that begins to highlight the urgent need for medical assessment and intervention to mitigate health risks effectively.