What Does Supersize vs Superskinny Mean?
Supersize refers to severe obesity, while superskinny refers to severe underweight. Both extremes are measured by body mass index (BMI). Health agencies track how these categories affect survival rates and medical spending.
How Body Weight Affects Mortality Risk
Research shows that very high and very low BMI are linked to higher death rates. Obesity increases risk of heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Being severely underweight can weaken the immune system and increase frailty.
What Do Health and Cost Studies Show?
Large population studies estimate that obesity raises lifetime medical costs by increasing hospital visits, medications, and lost work time. Severe underweight also drives emergency care and long-term support. Public health agencies use this data to set prevention priorities.
For background on BMI and mortality trends, see the World Health Organization overview at Obesity and Overweight.
