Body Mass Index

What is Body Mass Index?

Body Mass Index (BMI) measures a persons weight relative to their height. The Body Mass Index Formula was developed by Belgium statistician Adolphe Quelet .

The formula is designed for adults over 20 years old. Once calculated, Body Mass Index can be compared to weight status categories to determine if an individual is:

• underweight (BMI: below 19.5)
• normal weight (BMI:18.5 - 24.9)
• overweight (BMI: 25.0 to 29.9)
• obese (BMI: 30.0 & above)

Large health organizations have used/use different weight status categories.

Weight status categories on this site are in keeping with the US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention guidelines.

Limitations of Body Mass Index

An individuals Body Mass Index and their corresponding 'weight status' category needs to be placed in context.

Body Mass Index can:

Overestimate Body Fat

Individuals who are athletic and/or have a muscular build may be categorized as overweight. Body builders are often categorized as obese - however body building may promote a longer life expectancy.

Underestimate Body Fat

Body fat can be underestimated in individuals who have lost muscle mass - this often occurs with older people.

Diseases Associated with Obesity

In general, the greater the BMI the greater the risk of contracting diseases associated with obesity. These diseases include:

• High Blood Pressure - which can lead to heart failure, stroke, kidney damage and/or loss of vision due to retinal damage.
• Diabetes - a metabolic disease caused by lack of insulin
• Arteriosclerosis - narrowing & thickening of the arteries which can cause cerebrovascular and coronary disorders.
• Hyperlipemia - a high level of fat in the blood which is associated with high cholesterol levels.

Other Risk Factors

Body Mass Index is not a diagnostic tool, it is an indicator of weight status. The risk factors below should also be considered when assessing general health risks.

• Family History of premature heart disease
• High Blood Pressure(hypertension)
• High LDL-cholesterol
• HDL-Cholesterol
• Triglycerides
• High Blood Glucose (sugar)
• Physical inactivity
• Cigarette/Tobacco Smoking

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