BMI is short for Body Mass Index. It is an arithmetical figure that compares one’s weight to his or her height. Body mass index also simply called BMI is arrived at after having divided the weight of a person by square of his/her height in meters. How to count BMI / BMI is short for Body Mass Index. It is an arithmetical figure that compares one’s weight to his or her height.
1. Categorize patients according how they fare on weight status scale as underweight, normal weight, overweight or obese.
2. Estimate body fat content
3. Predict health risks associated with weight, such as:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Certain cancers
BMI categories:
- Underweight: BMI < 18.5
- Normal weight: BMI = 18.5-24.9
- Overweight: BMI = 25-29.9
- Obese: BMI ≥ 30
Conversely, BMI should be applied with other measurement indicators to give a better picture of the situation.
To calculate BMI, follow these steps:
1. Record your weight in the unit kilogram (kg).
2. Record your height in millimetres (mm) then divide the figure by 1000 to convert it into metres (m).
3. Multiply your height by itself so that it becomes expressed as a square meter.
4. Literally, divide your weight in kilogram by your height in meters squared.
Formula:
BMI =
weight / height ( meters square)
Example:
Weight = 65 kg
Height = 1.68 m (5 feet 6 inches)
1. height: 1.68 m × 1.68 m = 2.82 m²
2. Divide weight by height squared: 65 kg ÷ 2.82 m² = 23.05
BMI = 23.05
You should round the result up to the point where there’re two decimal places left.
You can also go online searching for a BMI calculator or you can seek the services of a health practitioner for a BMI check.
Remember, BMI categories are:
- Underweight: BMI < 18.5
- Normal weight: BMI = 18.5-24.9
- Overweight: BMI = 25-29.9
- Obese: BMI ≥ 30
