1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight. It provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula divides a person's weight by the square of their height to categorize their weight status.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening method for weight category - underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity. It can help identify potential weight problems in adults.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, and optionally age. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0). For Filipinos, BMI interpretation may consider local body composition characteristics.

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 different for Filipinos?
A: Some studies suggest Filipinos may have higher body fat percentage at lower BMIs compared to Caucasians.

Q3: How does age affect BMI?
A: BMI interpretation may vary slightly with age, as body composition changes. Older adults may have different healthy ranges.

Q4: What are limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, and may not be accurate for athletes, pregnant women, or the elderly.

Q5: What's a healthy BMI in the Philippines?
A: Generally the same ranges apply, but some experts suggest lower cutoff points for overweight (23-24.9) and obesity (≥25) for Filipinos.