1. What is BMI?

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. For Canadian women, BMI interpretation may vary slightly by age.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Body weight in kilograms (kg)
• \( height \) — Height in meters (m)

Explanation: The equation divides weight by the square of height to estimate body fatness.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: 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.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, and age in years. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0, age ≥18).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is BMI different for Canadian women?
A: The calculation is the same, but interpretation may consider age-specific norms for Canadian women.

Q2: What are normal BMI values?
A: For adults: Underweight (<18.5), Normal weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obese (≥30).

Q3: How accurate is BMI?
A: BMI is a screening tool but doesn't directly measure body fat. Athletes may have high BMI from muscle, not fat.

Q4: Does BMI change with age?
A: Ideal BMI ranges may shift slightly with age, especially for women after menopause.

Q5: Should BMI be used alone?
A: No, it should be considered alongside other measurements like waist circumference and overall health assessment.