1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, overweight and obesity in adults. It is defined as a person's weight in kilograms divided by the square of their height in meters (kg/m²).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BMI formula:

Where:

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

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.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening tool for weight categories that may lead to health problems. It's used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems but it is not diagnostic of the body fatness or health of an individual.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0). For most accurate results, measure weight and height without shoes and heavy 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).

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

Q3: Should BMI be interpreted differently for children?
A: Yes, BMI for children and teens is age- and sex-specific and is often referred to as BMI-for-age.

Q4: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between fat and muscle mass, doesn't consider fat distribution, and may not be accurate for certain ethnic groups.

Q5: What should I do if my BMI is high?
A: Consult with a healthcare provider who can perform additional assessments to evaluate health risks and discuss potential lifestyle changes.