1. What is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, normal weight, overweight and obesity in adults. For women, BMI percentiles are less commonly used for adults than for children.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

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

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: While BMI is not a direct measure of body fat, it is a useful screening tool to identify potential weight problems in adults. For women, it can help assess health risks associated with being underweight or overweight.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0). Note that BMI percentiles are less commonly used for adult women than for children.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Why are percentiles less common for adult women?
A: Percentiles are primarily used for children and teens. For adults, fixed BMI categories are used regardless of age.

Q3: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, and may not accurately reflect body fatness in athletes, pregnant women, or the elderly.

Q4: Is BMI different for women and men?
A: The same BMI categories apply to both, though women typically have higher body fat percentages than men at the same BMI.

Q5: Should athletes use BMI?
A: Athletes with high muscle mass may have a high BMI without excess fat. Additional measurements may be needed.