Clinical Calc
BMI Calculator & Analyzer
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cm
Understanding Your BMI
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, overweight and obesity in adults. It is defined as the weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in metres (kg/m²).
| Classification | BMI Range (kg/m²) |
|---|---|
| Underweight | < 18.5 |
| Normal range | 18.5 – 24.9 |
| Overweight | 25.0 – 29.9 |
| Obese | ≥ 30.0 |
Limitations of BMI
While BMI is a useful screening tool, it does not diagnose the body fatness or health of an individual. For example:
- Athletes: May have a high BMI because of increased muscularity rather than increased body fatness.
- Elderly: May have a normal BMI but have lost muscle mass (sarcopenia).
- Pregnancy: BMI is not an appropriate measure during pregnancy.
