Body Mass Index (BMI) is an inexpensive and easy-to-perform method of screening for the different weight categories: underweight, normal or healthy weight, overweight, and obesity. While BMI can be used to screen for these weight categories and the possible health problems that are attributed to weight, it is not a diagnostic tool to determine body fat or overall health of an individual since it does not differentiate between body fat and muscle. To determine if a high BMI is a health risk, a healthcare provider would need to perform further assessments.
Calculate your BMI using this online BMI Calculator!
For adults 20 years old and older, BMI is interpreted using standard weight status categories. These categories are the same for men and women of all body types.The standard weight status categories associated with BMI ranges for adults are shown below.
BMI | Weight Category |
Below 18.5 | Underweight |
18.5 – 24.9 | Normal or Healthy Weight |
25.0 – 29.9 | Overweight |
30.0 and Above | Obese |
Guidelines for weight loss surgery approval may include one of the three following health scenarios based on individual health insurance requirements: