How to interpret your body mass index
BMI is a reference metric that relates weight and height to estimate overall body composition in adults.
A high value may be associated with higher cardiovascular and metabolic risk. This indicator should be complemented with personalized medical advice.
Body composition table by BMI
| Body composition | Body mass index (BMI) |
|---|---|
| Underweight | Less than 18.5 |
| Normal | 18.5 - 24.9 |
| Overweight | 25.0 - 29.9 |
| Obesity | 30.0 or more |
Frequently asked questions about BMI
How is BMI calculated?
In metric system, divide weight in kilograms by height in meters squared. In imperial system, use weight (lb) / height (in)^2 x 703.
Is BMI a medical diagnosis?
No. It is an initial indicator. A full assessment should consider age, sex, muscle mass, medical history, and other factors.