Body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to both adult men and women. It is an inexpensive and easy-to-perform method of screening for weight categories that may lead to health problems. Several websites have a
body mass index calculator which require you to enter your heart and weight. One excellent source is the CDC because it offers information on understanding BMI for children and teenagers.
Of course, you can also calculate your BMI yourlsef using this formula: weight (lb) / [height (in)]2 x 703. In other words, divide weight in pounds (lbs) by height in inches (in) squared and multiplying by a conversion factor of 703.
What does it mean?
Because BMI is a reliable indicator of total body fat, which is related to the risk of disease and death, the BMI numbers are sorted into categories.
- Underweight = <18.5
- Normal weight = 18.5-24.9
- Overweight = 25-29.9
- Obesity = BMI of 30 or greater
The higher your BMI, the greater your risk for diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, and certain cancers.
Other risk factors
It is also important to remember that BMI is only one factor related to risk for disease. For assessing someone's likelihood of developing overweight, obesity-related diseases or an eating disorder, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute guidelines recommend looking at two other predictors:
- The individual's waist circumference (because abdominal fat is a predictor of risk for obesity-related diseases).
- Other risk factors the individual has for diseases and conditions associated with obesity (for example, high blood pressure or physical inactivity).
What do I do now? Even a small weight loss (just 10 percent of your current weight) will help to lower your risk of developing diseases associated with obesity. If you are concerned about your BMI or just want more information, talk with your family doctor.
