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Calculating BMI

Body Mass Index

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.

Formula & Calculation

Calculate your BMI using this online BMI Calculator!

lb
ft
in
kg
m
cm
BMI: Body Mass Index
underweight
normal
overweight
obese

 

Weight Categories

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

 

General Guidelines for Weight Loss Surgery

Guidelines for weight loss surgery approval may include one of the three following health scenarios based on individual health insurance requirements:

  • A BMI of 40 or higher 
  • A BMI of 35 or higher and a serious health condition related to obesity such as type 2 diabetes, moderate or severe sleep apnea, high blood pressure, or in some cases fatty liver disease
  • A BMI of 30 or higher with type 2 diabetes

 

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