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 populations, lower BMI cutoffs are used due to higher health risks at lower BMI levels compared to Caucasians.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

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

Asian Women BMI Categories:

• Underweight: BMI < 18.5 kg/m²
• Normal weight: 18.5 ≤ BMI < 23 kg/m²
• Overweight: 23 ≤ BMI < 27.5 kg/m²
• Obese: BMI ≥ 27.5 kg/m²

3. Asian-Specific BMI Cutoffs

Details: Asian populations have higher percentages of body fat and higher risks of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease at lower BMI levels compared to Caucasians. Therefore, lower BMI cutoffs are recommended for Asian women.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, and age in years. Age must be 18 or older. The calculator provides both the BMI value and the Asian-specific classification.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why different BMI categories for Asians?
A: Asians have higher body fat percentage at lower BMI levels and greater health risks at lower BMIs compared to Caucasians.

Q2: Is BMI accurate for all body types?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat. Athletes may have high BMI without excess fat, while older adults may have normal BMI but high body fat.

Q3: How does age affect BMI interpretation?
A: For older Asian women, slightly higher BMI may be acceptable as very low BMI increases mortality risk.

Q4: Should pregnant women use this calculator?
A: No, BMI calculations during pregnancy are not accurate due to weight changes.

Q5: What's a healthy BMI range for Asian women?
A: Generally 18.5-22.9 kg/m², but individual factors like muscle mass and fat distribution should be considered.