BMI Calculator
Body Mass Index.
About the BMI Calculator
Body Mass Index.
What is Body Mass Index (BMI)?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a screening tool used by healthcare professionals to categorize a person's weight status. It is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight. The formula is BMI = kg/m² where kg is a person's weight in kilograms and m² is their height in meters squared.
Understanding Your BMI Result
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), BMI categories are:
- Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
- Normal weight: BMI 18.5 to 24.9
- Overweight: BMI 25 to 29.9
- Obesity: BMI 30 or greater
Why BMI Matters
Maintaining a healthy BMI is associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases such as:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Certain cancers
Limitations of BMI
While useful, BMI is not a perfect measure of health. It does not distinguish between muscle mass and fat. For example:
- Athletes: May have a high BMI due to muscle but very low body fat.
- Older Adults: May have a normal BMI but higher body fat (sarcopenic obesity).
Always consult with a healthcare provider for a comprehensive health assessment.