1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a value derived from the mass and height of a person. It provides a simple numeric measure of a person's thickness or thinness, allowing health professionals to discuss weight problems objectively with their patients.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Body weight in pounds (lb)
• \( height \) — Height in inches (in)
• \( 703 \) — Conversion factor (kg/m² to lb/in²)

Explanation: The formula calculates body mass divided by the square of body height, with a conversion factor to adjust units.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening method for weight category—underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity. It helps identify potential weight problems in adults.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in pounds and height in inches. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0). For most accurate results, measure weight in the morning before eating and after using the bathroom.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the BMI categories?
A: Underweight (BMI < 18.5), Normal weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obese (≥30).

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and underestimate it in older people who have lost muscle mass.

Q3: What is a healthy BMI for women?
A: For adult women, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is generally considered healthy.

Q4: Should BMI be interpreted differently for women?
A: Women tend to have more body fat than men at the same BMI. However, the same categories apply to both sexes.

Q5: What are alternatives to BMI?
A: Waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, and body fat percentage measurements may provide additional information.