Body mass index (BMI) is a numerical value calculated based on your weight and height. BMI indicates whether an adult male or female is underweight, overweight or within the normal limits. According to the American Heart Association, obesity is a major risk factor that contributes to heart disease, and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number one cause of death for adults in the United States is heart disease.
BMI Calculation and Assessment
To calculate BMI, divide the weight in kilograms by height in meters squared. BMI results are assessed in the following terms. A BMI of less than 18.5 is considered underweight; BMI readings of 18.5 to 24.9 are considered healthy; a BMI in the range of 25.0 to less than 30.0 is considered overweight. A BMI of 25.0 corresponds to approximately 10 percent over ideal body weight and increases the risks of heart disease and blood vessel problems.
BMI and Obesity
The National Institutes of Health defines obesity as a BMI that's greater than 30.0--which is weight in excess of 30 lbs. or more. Extreme obesity is a BMI that's 40 lbs. or more. Individuals with BMI readings of 30.0 or more, increase their risk of cardiovascular diseases, stroke and type 2 diabetes as well as hypertension, osteoarthritis or sleep apnea and respiratory problems, according to the CDC.
BMI Programs for Schools
In 2005, the Institute of Medicine prompted the federal government to establish guidance for BMI measurement programs in school. As a result, BMI measurements may be done in schools for surveillance and screening purposes. BMI surveillance programs assess the weight status of students in a school, a school district or state, to find the percentage of students whose weight predisposes them to health risks. BMI screening programs assess each student's weight status and provide parents with the information and suggest the appropriate corrective actions.
Considerations
BMI is a screening tool to assess an individual's health risks. It is not a tool used to diagnose health conditions. An individual with a high BMI will need further evaluation and assessments by her physician to determine health risks. This could include health screenings, family history and medical history and dietary intake and exercise habits as well as skin-fold thickness measurements.
CDC Recommendations
The CDC recommends the BMI tool as easy, inexpensive and the best method of assessing overweight and obesity of the population. The CDC also joins the American Academy of Pediatrics, in recommending the use of the BMI to screen for overweight and obesity in children, starting at age 2.
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