1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight. The formula is BMI = kg/m² where kg is a person's weight in kilograms and m² is their height in meters squared. BMI screens 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 (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 more objectively with their patients.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a useful screening tool to identify potential weight problems in adults. It's used to categorize individuals as underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese, which can indicate potential health risks.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0). For accuracy, measure height without shoes and weight with minimal clothing.

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 persons who have lost muscle mass.

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

Q4: Can children use this calculator?
A: Children need age- and sex-specific BMI percentiles rather than the adult categories used here.

Q5: What's a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy, though individual circumstances may vary.