Abstract

The Lancet Commission recently proposed a diagnostic paradigm that redefines obesity based on the presence or absence of adiposity-related tissue and organ dysfunction, classifying individuals as having either preclinical or clinical obesity . This framework shifts the diagnostic focus away from body mass index (BMI) as the primary criterion and addresses the inherent limitations of BMI-based classification. By emphasizing functional impairments attributable to excess adiposity, the Commission advances a pathophysiologically grounded approach to assessing obesity-related health risks. In this review, we discuss the rationale for incorporating the concept of clinical obesity into routine clinical practice and outline key considerations for its application in real-world settings.