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. It provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people.

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)

Asian-specific categories: This calculator uses lower BMI thresholds for Asian populations as they have higher health risks at lower BMI levels compared to Caucasians.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple screening tool for weight categories that may lead to health problems. For Asian populations, the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease begins at a lower BMI than for other ethnic groups.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For accurate results, measure weight without heavy clothing and height without shoes.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why different categories for Asians?
A: Asians have higher body fat percentage at lower BMI levels and higher risk of obesity-related diseases at lower BMI thresholds.

Q2: What are the Asian BMI categories?
A: Underweight (<18.5), Normal (18.5-22.9), Overweight (23-27.4), Obese (≥27.5).

Q3: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and underestimate it in older people who have lost muscle mass.

Q4: Should pregnant women use BMI?
A: BMI calculations during pregnancy are not accurate and should be interpreted with caution.

Q5: What's next if my BMI is high?
A: Consult a healthcare provider who may recommend waist circumference measurement and other tests.