Body Mass Index (BMI)
Body mass index, or BMI, is a new term to most
people. However, it is the measurement of choice for many physicians and researchers
studying obesity. BMI uses a mathematical formula that takes into account both a person's
height and weight. BMI equals a person's weight in kilograms divided by height in meters
squared. (BMI=kg/m2).
Risk of
Associated Disease According to BMI and Waist Size |
| BMI |
|
Waist less than or
equal to
40 in. (men) or
35 in. (women) |
Waist greater than
40 in. (men) or
35 in. (women) |
| 18.5 or less |
Underweight |
-- |
N/A |
| 18.5 - 24.9 |
Normal |
-- |
N/A |
| 25.0 - 29.9 |
Overweight |
Increased |
High |
| 30.0 - 34.9 |
Obese |
High |
Very High |
| 35.0 - 39.9 |
Obese |
Very High |
Very High |
| 40 or greater |
Extremely Obese |
Extremely High |
Extremely High |
|