Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measurement derived from an individual's height and weight to assess their body weight category. BMI can help determine whether a person is underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese.
Normal Body Mass Index (BMI)
A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered within the normal range. However, it is important to note that BMI alone does not determine overall health. Additional medical evaluations are required to assess specific health conditions.
A high BMI is strongly associated with overweight and obesity, which increase the risk of various health conditions, including:
- Coronary heart disease
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Osteoarthritis
- Sleep apnea
- Certain types of cancer
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
- Bladder disease
- Chronic inflammation
- Low quality of life
- High cholesterol
- Mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety
- Reduced physical function and mobility
Conversely, a BMI below the normal range may also indicate potential health risks. Individuals classified as underweight may be at risk for conditions such as:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Depression
- Infertility
- Dry skin
- Hair loss
- Irregular menstruation
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Osteoporosis
- Weakened immune function
How to Calculate Body Mass Index (BMI)
To determine your BMI, you need to know your weight (in kilograms) and height (in meters). BMI is calculated using the following formula:
BMI Formula:
BMI = weight (kg) ÷ (height (m) × height (m))
BMI Categories:
- Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
- Normal weight: BMI between 18.5 and 24.9
- Overweight: BMI between 25.0 and 29.9
- Obesity: BMI 30 or higher
The BMI calculation application allows for quick and easy BMI assessment without manual calculations. Simply enter your height and weight into the designated fields, and the app will automatically generate your BMI.
If your BMI indicates obesity or being underweight, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance. If you need medical advice, you can visit a doctor in person or use the consultation features available in the Ai Care application. Download the Ai Care app from the App Store or Play Store for convenient access to medical consultations.
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- dr. Pandu Lesmana
CDC (2022). About Adult BMI. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/bmi/adult_bmi/index.html
Robert H. Shmerling, MD (2020). How useful is the body mass index (BMI)?. Available from: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/how-useful-is-the-body-mass-index-bmi-201603309339
Elizabeth Quinn, MS (2022). What Is Body Mass Index (BMI) and What Does It Measure?. Available from: https://www.verywellfit.com/bmi-what-is-bmi-or-body-mass-index-3120088
Mayo Clinic (2021). Obesity. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/obesity/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20375749