Inexpensive and easy-to-use measures to determine health risk are important for health care providers. BMI is one such health assessment tool used by health professionals around the world.
The Basics
Body mass index (BMI) is a weight-height ratio used in epidemiological studies. BMI is calculated by dividing weight in pounds by height in inches squared, then multiplying that number by 703. It is the easiest way to measure body fat, or excess body fat tissue, and determine an individual's risk of disease.
Disease Risk
A higher BMI is associated with obesity and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. According to the Obesity Society, obesity affects more than a third of the American population and is the leading cause of sickness, death and the rise in health care costs.
Measurement
After calculating your BMI, determine where you fall:
Below 18.5 = underweight
Between 18.5 and 24.9 = Normal weight
Between 24.9 and 29.9 = Overweight
30 and greater = Obese
40 and greater = Morbidly Obese
Warning
Individuals with BMIs that fall into the overweight and obese categories are at increased risk of certain diseases and health conditions, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol/triglycerides, type 2 diabetes, stroke, osteoarthritis, gallbladder disease, coronary heart disease and cancer.
Considerations
Though BMI is used to asses disease risk, it is not a good indicator of body fat percentage. Individuals with increased musculature and skeletal mass may be classified as obese, even though they are not. BMI should also not be used to assess body fat for pregnant and lactating women. Though BMI is used to assess health risk, it is not a replacement for a good physical exam.
References
- Obesity Society
- "ACSM's Resources for Personal Trainer (Second Edition)"; Lippincott Williams and Wilkins; 2007
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