1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a value derived from the mass and height of a person. The BMI is defined as the body mass divided by the square of the body height, and is expressed in units of kg/m².

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BMI formula:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Weight in pounds (lbs)
• \( height \) — Height in inches (feet × 12 + inches)
• 703 — Conversion factor

Explanation: The equation converts weight in pounds and height in inches to the standard BMI metric (kg/m²).

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.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in pounds, height in feet and inches. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a healthy BMI range?
A: For adults 20 and older: Underweight (<18.5), Normal (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obese (≥30).

Q2: Are there limitations to BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so athletes may have high BMI without excess fat. It also doesn't account for fat distribution.

Q3: Should BMI be interpreted differently for children?
A: Yes, children's BMI is age and sex-specific and should be plotted on growth charts.

Q4: Is BMI accurate for elderly people?
A: BMI may underestimate health risks in elderly as they typically have less muscle mass.

Q5: What other measurements complement BMI?
A: Waist circumference and body fat percentage provide additional information about health risks.