Petition · Department of Health and Social Care
Review BMI use in NHS care and school health assessments
Closed
56 signatures
What the petition asks
We ask the Government to undertake a review of the suitability of using BMI in NHS care and school health assessments, with a view to ensuring that NHS and educational health practices are fit for the 21st century and align with modern, evidence-based tools that truly support wellbeing.
BMI is considered by many to be an outdated, inaccurate measure that does not reflect individual health or account for differences in age, ethnicity, disability, or body composition. Its use increases stigma, and can cause harm to children and adults.
It continues to influence access to surgeries, fertility services, pain management, and other essential treatments.
In schools, children are assigned a BMI category yet childhood growth patterns are highly individual, making BMI inappropriate for use with children.
It continues to influence access to surgeries, fertility services, pain management, and other essential treatments.
In schools, children are assigned a BMI category yet childhood growth patterns are highly individual, making BMI inappropriate for use with children.
Timeline
| 22 Dec 2025 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 22 Jun 2026 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
56
Status
Closed
Department
Department of Health and Social Care
Opened
22 Dec 2025
Closed
22 Jun 2026
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 18 Aug 2026.