The likelihood of developing certain health problems can be affected by how much you weigh. To determine your risk level, guidelines have been established that define normal body weight in relation to height.
Method
Body mass index (BMI) is the standard calculation used to assess health risk related to body weight. To calculate it, multiply your weight in pounds by 703 then divide the result by your height in inches squared. A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy.
Significance
Having a BMI that falls under the healthy range increases your risk of developing osteoporosis and infertility. Being above the healthy range increase your chances of developing diabetes, cardiovascular disease and certain cancers.
Categories
A BMI less than 18.5 is considered underweight. A BMI between 25 and 29.9 is considered overweight and is associated with a moderate risk level. A BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese and is associated with higher risk.
Assumptions
BMI guidelines assume that extra body weight is a result of excess, unhealthy body fat.
Limitations
Athletic people with greater muscle mass may have a BMI that exceeds the healthy range, but they are actually at lower risk for health problems. BMI also does not take location of body fat into account. Fat around the abdomen poses a greater health risk than fat elsewhere on the body.
Considerations
Body weight alone is not the most accurate predictor of health risk. Other factors such as smoking, genetics, lifestyle and gender play an important role as well.
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