1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.

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 objectively.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems but it is not diagnostic of 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).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the standard BMI categories?
A: Underweight (<18.5), Normal weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obesity (≥30).

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

Q3: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For most adults, checking BMI annually is sufficient unless actively trying to change weight.

Q4: Are there limitations to BMI?
A: BMI doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, overall body composition, or racial and sex differences.

Q5: Should children use this calculator?
A: Children and teens need age- and sex-specific BMI calculations as their body composition varies with age.