BODY MASS INDEX (BMI)

An indirect measure of body fat. Identifies possible weight problems for adults, and allows individuals to compare their weight status to that of the general population. BMI = weight(kg)/height(m2).  

Interpretation of BMI in adults

Overweight — BMI of 25–29.9 kg/m2

Obesity l — BMI of 30–34.9 kg/m2

Obesity ll — BMI of 35–39.9 kg/m2

Obesity lll — BMI of greater than or equal to 40 kg/m2

Interpretation of BMI in children

Specific age-adjusted and sex-specific charts must be used for children.

BMI takes no account of fat distribution or body composition; for example, a highly trained athlete may have a high BMI because of increased muscularity rather than increased body fat. An alternative predictor of risk for obesity-related diseases is waist circumference.

See Obesity, Waist circumference