Swiss researchers found that BMI calculations are a better predictor for cardiovascular disease than cholesterol levels. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. In the past, many doctors have relied on blood work to view LDL and HDL levels. BMI calculations are based on simple division of the individual’s body mass by the square of his or her height.

Q: What is the significance of a BMI calculation being a better predictor for cardiovascular disease than actual cholesterol levels?

A: Beyond the obvious cut of cost in blood work and the increased sample size for future research, I think this also gives us another clue as to how obesity and fat levels are correlated with overall disease within the body. As BMI moves upward, can we use it as a better predictor for disease in general?