Previous surveys have shown that height of observed blood pressure and degree of overweight are related. However, excess weight does not necessarily mean excess fat and the possibility of error in the measurement of blood pressure due to variations in the size of the arm has not been excluded. The present survey, taking these factors into account, shows that blood pressure is influenced by the total bulk of the body but not especially by fat except insofar as it contributes to total bulk. A possible explanation of the findings is offered.