1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, normal weight, overweight and obesity in adults. For Asian women over 50, the normal range is adjusted to 18.5-22.9 kg/m² due to higher health risks at lower BMI levels compared to other populations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula with Asian-specific cutoffs:

Asian-specific BMI Categories:

• < 18.5 — Underweight
• 18.5-22.9 — Normal weight
• 23.0-24.9 — Overweight (increased risk)
• 25.0-29.9 — Moderately obese (high risk)
• ≥ 30.0 — Severely obese (very high risk)

3. Special Considerations for Asian Women Over 50

Details: Asian populations have higher risks of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease at lower BMI levels compared to Caucasians. After menopause, women experience changes in body composition that may affect BMI interpretation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For accuracy, measure weight in the morning after bathroom use and height without shoes.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why different BMI ranges for Asians?
A: Asians have higher body fat percentages at lower BMIs and greater metabolic risks at lower BMI thresholds.

Q2: Does BMI account for muscle mass?
A: No, BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat. Athletic individuals may have high BMI without excess fat.

Q3: How does menopause affect BMI interpretation?
A: Postmenopausal women often experience increased abdominal fat, which carries higher metabolic risks at any given BMI.

Q4: Should elderly Asian women aim for the same BMI?
A: Some studies suggest slightly higher BMI may be protective in older age, but consult your healthcare provider.

Q5: What additional measurements help assess health risk?
A: Waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio provide additional information about fat distribution.