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.

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 widely used screening tool to identify potential weight problems in adults. While it doesn't measure body fat directly, research has shown that BMI correlates to direct measures of body fat.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in kilograms and height in meters. Make sure to use accurate measurements for the most precise BMI calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and others with muscular build, and underestimate body fat in older persons and others who have lost muscle mass.

Q3: Can children use the same BMI categories?
A: No, BMI for children and teens is interpreted differently, taking into account age and sex-specific percentiles.

Q4: What are the health risks associated with high BMI?
A: Higher BMI is associated with increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, gallstones, breathing problems, and certain cancers.

Q5: Should BMI be the only measure of health?
A: No, BMI should be used as a screening tool, not a diagnostic of body fatness or health. Other factors like waist circumference, diet, and physical activity should also be considered.