The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explains that body mass index is a formula that helps determine whether or not you're overweight or obese for your height. It's a screening tool for children, adolescents and adults using weight and height to arrive at a numeric value. The numeric value is a good indication of body fatness and weight categories that often result in health problems.
BMI Equation
Regardless of age or gender, the body mass index equation looks exactly the same.
BMI = (weight x 703) / (height x height)
Taking your weight in pounds and your height in inches, simply plug the numbers into the equation to determine body mass index. It can also be calculated by dividing your weight in pounds by your height in inches squared and multiplying this number by 703, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).
Designation
For adults, the Mayo Clinic identifies a BMI of 25.0 to 29.9 as overweight, 30.0 to 39.9 as obese and 40 or more as morbidly obese. There are also two other designations, which include underweight and normal weight. These are defined as BMIs of below 18.5 or 18.5 to 24.9, respectively.
For children and adolescents, the numeric value alone does not determine body fatness or weight status. The BMI is placed on a grid, comparing children of the same age and sex. This establishes in which percentile your child falls. A BMI that places a child between the 85th and 95th percentiles is defined as overweight, according to the CDC. Anything over the 95th percentile is considered obesity.
Function
Because body mass index is a screening tool, additional assessments are typically needed to establish if the excess weight is a health risk, advises the CDC. Your doctor may measure skinfold thickness, blood pressure, heart rate and waist circumference. A family history, medical history, diet assessment and review of physical activity are also necessary to help determine potential health problems.
Effects
With a BMI of over 30.0, you're at a much greater risk of developing weight-related health problems. Even children with a BMI that places them above the 95th percentile have this risk. High blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, type II diabetes, sleep apnea and heart disease are just a few consequences of obesity in both children and adults, warns the Mayo Clinic. It also increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Treatment
Treatment usually involves lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise. Diet involves not only a reduction in caloric consumption but also an overhaul in food choices. Doctors often recommend eating more fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains and lean proteins. These products are relatively low in calories but high in nutrients, and they help to encourage weight loss and improve overall health. Exercise is any activity that increases energy expenditure, which burns more calories and causes additional weight loss. Swimming, biking or taking part in a team sport are all great options for children, adolescents and adults.
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