Let's say your body mass index (calculated by multiplying your weight in pounds by 703, dividing by your height in inches and dividing again by your height in inches) falls within the "normal" range. That's good, right? Not necessarily. Researchers at the University of Florida report that people with reasonable BMIs but relatively little muscular strength (measured by grip) are at higher risk of diabetes and hypertension.

The phenomenon is called "healthy weight obesity." It's estimated that up to 30 million Americans look OK poundwise but in fact carry too much fat and too little muscle, resulting in sometimes hard-to-detect health problems.

The link between decreased muscle strength and high blood pressure and diabetes isn't well-understood, but it may be caused by lower muscle quality or a condition called diabetic hand syndrome, which limits finger movement.

The researchers suggest that a grip strength test added to routine health screenings might detect undiagnosed diabetes and hypertension in patients who otherwise look pretty good.

Counts

60,000: average annual cost in dollars for care and treatment of a child with autism spectrum disorder.

268: estimated amount, in billions of dollars, that it will cost to care for all Americans with ASD in 2015.

461: estimated amount, in billions of dollars, in 2025 if rates continue to climb.

30.86: National Institutes of Health budget in 2012, in billions of dollars.

169: amount, in millions of dollars, devoted by NIH in 2012 for autism research (0.55 percent of total).

Sources: University of California, Davis; Autism Speaks

Never Say Diet

The Major League Eating record for reindeer sausage is 28 in 10 minutes, held by Dale Boone. Reportedly, Santa's hoofed helpers did not witness the feat, which is concerning.

Observation

"My doctor gave me two weeks to live. I hope they're in August." — comedian Ronnie Shakes

Epitaphs

"He gave all he possessed, including his life, for the wild animals of Africa."

Michael Grzimek (1934-59) was a German zoologist, conservationist and filmmaker whose work was instrumental in promoting the development of several of Africa's most famous national parks, including Tanzania's Serengeti National Park. He was killed when the plane he was piloting near the Ngorongoro Crater collided with a vulture, causing him to lose control.

To find out more about Scott LaFee and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.