The Body Mass Index (BMI) is an important indicator of overall health and can be used to assess the risk of certain medical conditions, including acromegaly. Acromegaly is a disorder caused by an excess of growth hormone, which can lead to significant physical changes in the body, such as enlargement of the hands, feet, and facial features. People with acromegaly typically experience an increase in body fat, and this can lead to a higher BMI.
The BMI in acromegaly is typically higher than in the general population. On average, people with acromegaly have a BMI that is 7-10% higher than those without the condition. This increase is due to the presence of increased body fat, which is primarily due to increased growth hormone levels. Additionally, people with acromegaly may also be more likely to be overweight or obese due to their increased appetite, which can further contribute to an increased BMI.
It is important to note that BMI is not an exact measure of health, and it is not recommended to use it as a diagnostic tool for acromegaly. BMI should always be assessed in conjunction with other factors to provide an accurate assessment of overall health. Additionally, people with acromegaly should be monitored closely by their healthcare provider to ensure their BMI does not exceed a healthy range.