Body mass index (BMI), is a tool that is used to gauge a person's obesity rating. This method can be used for children as young as 2 years old, as well as adults.
Formula
A manual formula, which is weight in pounds, times 703, divided (lbs. x 703) by height in inches squared (in x in) determines BMI.
Charts
A BMI chart for children is based on age, height, weight and gender. A BMI chart based on height and weight is for adults.
Normal
A normal BMI for children is from the 5th percentile to just under the 85th percentile, while a BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 is normal for adults. Generally people who fall within this range should eat a healthy diet and exercise to maintain weight.
Underweight
A classification of underweight is made if a child is under the 5th percentile or if an adult has a BMI of under 18.5. In this case, the patient should be placed on an eating and exercise plan to gain weight.
Overweight and Obese
A child with a BMI in the 85th to 94th percentile is considered overweight and higher than that is considered obese, while an adult with a BMI of 25 to 29.9 is overweight and 30 or higher is obese. These patients must begin a weight loss program with a goal of reaching a normal BMI.
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