BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) and find out your weight category.
BMI Classification
| BMI | Category |
|---|---|
| < 18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5 - 24.9 | Normal weight |
| 25 - 29.9 | Overweight |
| ≥ 30 | Obesity |
Formula & Origin
BMI (Body Mass Index) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight: BMI = weight (kg) / [height (m)]².
For example, if a person weighs 70 kg and is 1.75 m tall, their BMI = 70 / (1.75 * 1.75) = 22.86 kg/m².
The formula was devised by Belgian statistician Adolphe Quetelet in the 1830s (then called the "Quetelet Index"). In 1972, American physiologist Ancel Keys named it "Body Mass Index (BMI)" and promoted its use in epidemiological studies as a simple tool to assess overweight and obesity in populations.
Purpose & Application
- Population health screening: BMI is widely used to identify individuals at potential risk of weight-related health problems.
- Epidemiological research: Used to study the association between weight categories and disease incidence.
- Clinical assessment: Doctors may use BMI as an initial screening tool, combined with other health indicators (e.g., waist circumference, blood lipids, blood pressure) for a more comprehensive evaluation.
This tool is for general health reference only. For specific health conditions, please consult a healthcare professional.