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BMI Equation:
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Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight. The formula is BMI = kg/m² where kg is a person's weight in kilograms and m² is their height in meters squared. It's used by the Australia Heart Foundation as a screening tool for weight categories.
The calculator uses the standard BMI equation:
Where:
Explanation: BMI provides a simple numeric measure of a person's thickness or thinness, allowing health professionals to discuss weight problems more objectively with their patients.
Details: BMI is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems but it is not diagnostic of body fatness or health. According to the Australia Heart Foundation, BMI categories are:
Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For height, you can convert from cm to m by dividing by 100 (e.g., 175 cm = 1.75 m). All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).
Q1: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may not be accurate for athletes (who may have high muscle mass), pregnant women, the elderly, or people with unusual body compositions.
Q2: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat mass, and doesn't account for fat distribution which is important for health risks.
Q3: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For most adults, checking every few months is sufficient unless you're actively trying to change your weight.
Q4: Does BMI differ for children?
A: Yes, children's BMI is interpreted differently using age and sex-specific percentile charts rather than fixed categories.
Q5: What should I do if my BMI is outside the healthy range?
A: Consult with a healthcare professional who can assess your overall health and provide personalized advice.