1. What is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a measure that uses your height and weight to determine if your weight is healthy. It's widely used as a screening tool to identify potential weight problems in adults.

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 to get BMI in kg/m² when using imperial units

Explanation: The formula calculates your weight in relation to your height squared, providing a single number that can be categorized.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening method for weight categories that may lead to health problems. It helps identify potential weight issues that might need further assessment by a healthcare provider.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in pounds and height in inches. For most accurate results, measure your height without shoes and weight with minimal clothing.

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), and Obese (30 or higher).

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and underestimate it in older people with lost muscle mass. It's a screening tool, not a diagnostic.

Q3: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For most adults, checking every 6-12 months is sufficient unless you're actively trying to change your weight.

Q4: What's a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy, but individual factors may affect this.

Q5: Should children use this calculator?
A: No, children need age- and sex-specific BMI percentiles rather than the adult categories.