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. It is calculated by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Body weight in kilograms (converted from pounds if needed)
• \( height \) — Height in meters (converted from inches if needed)

Conversion factors:

• 1 pound (lb) = 0.453592 kilograms (kg)
• 1 inch (in) = 0.0254 meters (m)

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: 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. It's a quick screening tool for weight categories that may lead to health problems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight and height in either metric or imperial units. The calculator will automatically convert to metric units for the calculation. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the standard 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 those with muscular builds, and underestimate it in older persons who have lost muscle mass.

Q3: Why is BMI important?
A: Higher BMI is associated with increased risk of diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.

Q4: Should BMI be interpreted differently for men?
A: Men typically have more muscle mass than women at the same BMI, but the same BMI categories apply to both genders.

Q5: What's a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy.