Inexpensive and easy to use measures to determine health risk are important for healthcare providers. BMI is one such important health assessment tool used by health professionals around the world. Knowing your BMI is key to determining health risk.
The Facts
Body mass index (BMI) is a weight for height ratio used in epidemiological studies. BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared. It is the easiest way to measure body fat or excess body fat tissue and determine an individual's risk of disease.
Disease Risk
Higher BMI's are associated with obesity and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. According to the Obesity Society, obesity affects over one third of the American population and is the leading cause of morbidity, mortality, and rise in healthcare costs.
BMI Measurement
BMI is usually calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared but an easier conversion is available. Weight in pounds divided by height in inches squared multiplied by 704.5. [weight (lbs) / height (in)2 ] x 704.5 = BMI
BMI below 18.5 = underweight
BMI between 18.5 -- 24.9 = Normal weight
BMI between 24.9 -- 29.9 = Overweight
BMI of 30 and greater = Obese
BMI of 40 and greater = Morbidly Obese
Warning
Individuals with BMI's that fall into the overweight and obese categories are at increased risk of certain diseases and health conditions. The list of diseases and conditions include; hypertension, hyperlipidemia, 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 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 examination.
References
- Obesity Society
- ACSM's Resources for Personal Trainer Second Edition; Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2007
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