Body Mass Index is a formula used to measure an individual's weight in relation to her height. BMI places an individual in one of four categories: underweight, normal, overweight or obese. BMI measurements apply across the board for all adults of any age or gender. The BMI scale is the same for women as it is for men.
Determining Your BMI
Divide your weight in pounds by your height in inches squared. Multiply the result by 703. Use the formula (weight/[height ^2]) x 703. For example, if you stand at 5-foot-8 (68-inches) and weight 145 pounds, divide 145 by 68 squared (4,624). Multiply the result by 703. Your BMI would be 22.0.
Weight Scale
A BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 suggests a healthy, normal weight. A woman with a BMI below 18.5 is considered underweight, whereas a woman with a BMI of 25.0 to 29.9 is considered overweight. Those with a BMIs of 30.0 and above are considered obese. Those with BMIs above or below the normal range are at an increased risk for a variety of medical conditions.
Dangers
If your BMI is equal to, or above, 25.0, your chances of developing heart disease, hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, stroke, cancer, osteoarthritis, back pain, sleep apnea and depression increases. If your BMI is below 18.5, you are at an increased risk for osteoporosis, anemia and hair loss. Having a BMI too low or too high can both lead to menstrual irregularities and pregnancy complications in women as well.
Flaws
BMI doesn't take into consideration muscle mass or body fat percentage. Since muscle weighs more than fat, an athlete or a body-builder with a low percentage of body fat can have the same BMI as someone with a high percentage of body fat. BMI also does not take frame size into consideration, so a large-framed person with a BMI of 25.0 may actually be a healthy weight.
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