1. What is Body Mass Index?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, overweight and obesity in adults. It is defined as a person's weight in kilograms divided by the square of their height in meters (kg/m²).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BMI formula:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Body weight in kilograms (kg)
• \( height \) — Height in meters (m)

Explanation: BMI provides a simple numeric measure of a person's thickness or thinness, allowing health professionals to discuss weight problems more objectively with their patients.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive, and noninvasive surrogate measure of body fat. It is widely used as a screening tool to identify possible weight problems in adults and to assess health risks associated with different weight categories.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0). For accurate results, measure weight and height precisely.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the standard BMI categories for adults?
A: Underweight: <18.5, Normal weight: 18.5-24.9, Overweight: 25-29.9, Obesity: ≥30.

Q2: Is BMI applicable to everyone?
A: BMI may not accurately reflect body fatness in athletes, pregnant women, the elderly, or people with muscular builds as it doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat mass.

Q3: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For most adults, checking BMI annually is sufficient unless you're actively trying to lose or gain weight.

Q4: Are there limitations to BMI?
A: Yes, BMI doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, overall body composition, or racial and sex differences.

Q5: Should BMI be the only measure of health?
A: No, BMI should be used as a screening tool alongside other assessments like waist circumference, diet, physical activity, and family history.