Body mass index, or BMI, is a new term
to most people. However, it is the measurement of choice for many physicians
and researchers studying obesity. BMI uses a mathematical formula that takes
into account both a person's height and weight. BMI equals a person's weight in
kilograms divided by height in meters squared. (BMI=kg/m2).
Risk of Associated Disease
According to BMI and Waist Size |
BMI |
|
Waist less
than or equal to 40 in. (men) or 35 in.
(women) |
Waist greater
than 40 in. (men) or 35 in.
(women) |
18.5 or
less |
Underweight |
-- |
N/A |
18.5 -
24.9 |
Normal |
-- |
N/A |
25.0 -
29.9 |
Overweight |
Increased |
High |
30.0 -
34.9 |
Obese |
High |
Very
High |
35.0 -
39.9 |
Obese |
Very
High |
Very
High |
40 or
greater |
Extremely
Obese |
Extremely
High |
Extremely
High |
|