Older Chinese people without high blood pressure who are obese (BMI 28 or higher) do not have a significantly different risk of dying from any cause compared to those with a normal weight.
Scientific Claim
In older Chinese adults aged 60 and older without hypertension, obesity (BMI ≥28 kg/m²) does not show a statistically significant association with all-cause mortality risk (hazard ratio 0.912, 95% confidence interval 0.792–1.051) compared to normal weight (BMI 18.5–24 kg/m²).
Original Statement
“In normotensive participants, the hazard ratios (HRs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of BMI <18.5, 24–28 and ≥28 kg/m² for mortality... were 1.444 (1.267–1.646), 0.884 (0.822–0.949) and 0.912 (0.792–1.051), respectively.”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The study is observational, so causal language is inappropriate. The claim correctly states the lack of statistical significance and provides the HR and CI.