BMI, or body mass index, is an extensively used approach to evaluate a person’s body weight in relation to their height. It is known to be the simplest and fastest screening way to categorize people into various weight status categories. BMI is commonly used by healthcare experts and researchers to assess potential weight-related health risks.
The BMI calculator is a useful tool for understanding a patient’s health status and risks. It is important to understand that BMI is a measurement method, not a diagnostic tool, and does not measure body fat percentage. It considers an individual’s height and weight to form a calculation. With BMI’s calculation, body size can be measured, and it is used to determine how body weight relates to height. Doctors use BMI to identify whether a patient is underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese.
BMI weight categories are divided into four: underweight (below 18.5), healthy weight (18.5-24.9), overweight (25.0-29.9), and obesity (30 and above).
Understanding your weight category helps both you and your doctor assess health risks. High BMI increases the risk of developing serious health conditions such as heart disease and Type 2 diabetes. Studies suggest that an increase in BMI correlates with an increase in health complications.
An individual`s BMI is determined using a mathematical formula. Additionally, BMI can be calculated using tables that match weight in pounds to height in inches. Online resources offer convenient calculators for BMI calculations.
The calculation is as follows:
BMI = Weight in kilograms divided by Height in square meters.
A BMI within the range of 18.5 to 24.9 is considered normal, indicating that the individual is within the normal weight range for their height. BMI charts classify individuals as underweight, normal, overweight, or obese.
Here is a BMI chart for adults. Doctors assess the weight status of an individual based on the following table:
| BMI | Weight Status |
|---|---|
| Below 18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5-24.9 | Normal weight |
| 25.0-29.9 | Overweight |
| 30.0 and above | Obesity |
Here is a BMI chart for children. Doctors assess the weight status of an individual based on the following table:
| BMI | Weight Status |
|---|---|
| 5th percentile | Underweight |
| 5th percentile to 85th percentile | Normal weight |
| 85th percentile to 95th percentile | Overweight |
| 95th percentile and above | Obesity |
People with high BMI or obesity are at risk of developing conditions such as osteoarthritis, cancers, hypertension, coronary heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and respiratory issues.
Low BMI indicates risks including depression, cardiovascular disease, dry skin, hair loss, nutrient deficiencies, irregular menstruation, difficulty conceiving, osteoporosis, and a weakened immune system.
