by In the realm of determining one’s health, for years, the number on a scale has been the go-to metric. However, weight alone fails to provide a comprehensive view of overall well-being.
Since the 19th century, people have relied on the body mass index (BMI) as a measure of body fat based on height and weight. However, the American Medical Association (AMA) asserts that BMI falls short as an ideal metric due to its failure to consider various factors such as age, gender, race/ethnicity, body shape, genetics, and muscle and body fat percentages.
Dr. Barbara Bawer, a family medicine physician and clinical assistant professor of family and community medicine at The Ohio State University College of Medicine, underscores the limitations of BMI as a sole determinant of health. She explains that while BMI provides an assessment of mass in relation to height, it disregards crucial aspects such as genetics that impact overall well-being. For instance, individuals may possess a normal BMI but lack overall health, while others with higher BMI may, surprisingly, exhibit good health in other areas.
Instead, Dr. Bawer directs attention towards a more comprehensive evaluation of health by focusing on what she calls the B.A.S.I.C.S. checklist. By closely adhering to this checklist, individuals can not only prevent illness but also identify potential health issues at an early stage.
The B.A.S.I.C.S. checklist encompasses the following components:
1. Brain: This pertains to one’s cognitive health. Individuals are encouraged to assess their memory functions, noting any difficulties in recalling appointments or important dates. Additionally, changes in cognitive functions as indicated by self-administered tests such as the SAGE test, which identifies early signs of dementia, should be monitored.
2. Activity: This aspect evaluates an individual’s physical activity level. Meeting the recommended 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week is a crucial criterion. Furthermore, individuals should pay attention to any pain experienced during exercise or extended periods of sitting.
3. Stomach: The health of one’s digestive system is vital. Conditions such as indigestion, abdominal pain, and bloating should be noted. Regular bowel movements, the absence of blood in the stool, and unexplained weight fluctuations are all relevant factors to consider.
4. Immunity: Recognizing one’s susceptibility to illnesses and infections is essential. Frequent sickness, extended recovery periods, and adherence to recommended vaccinations are indicators of a robust immune system.
5. Checkups: Regular visits to one’s primary care physician for annual checkups are indispensable. Individuals should communicate any existing health concerns and ensure they are up to date with all recommended screenings.
6. Sleep: Adequate sleep is instrumental in maintaining good health. Seven to nine hours of sleep each night is the recommended guideline. Individuals should note excessive daytime tiredness and the need for frequent naps.
Dr. Bawer advises individuals to conduct the B.A.S.I.C.S. checklist on a monthly basis to identify any changes in health. This data can then be used to initiate discussions with healthcare providers when red flags arise.
Neglecting seemingly minor symptoms can lead to more significant complications over time. Dr. Bawer emphasizes the importance of early detection and prompt treatment by consulting primary care physicians. By doing so, individuals can potentially prevent the exacerbation of health issues and minimize complications.
Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. With an MBA in E-commerce, she has an expertise in SEO-optimized content that resonates with industry professionals.
