BMI - Body Mass Index: Frequently Asked Questions
Why does CDC use the Body Mass Index (BMI) to measure overweight
and obesity in the general adult population?
Calculating the BMI is one of the best methods for population assessment
of overweight and obesity. It is low-cost and easy to use for clinicians
and the general public. The use of BMI allows people to compare
their own weight status to the general population. The only information
required to calculate a person's BMI are height, weight, and the
BMI formula
BMI = (Weight in Pounds / (Height in inches x Height in inches)
) x 703
or
BMI = Weight in Kilograms /
(Height in Meters) x (Height in Meters)
Are people with a lot of muscle considered to be overweight
when their BMI is over 25?
According to the weight categories, any person with a BMI over
25 would be classified as overweight. This may not mean they have
excess fat. Such categories are based on scientific findings that
the risk for disease increases as BMI increases.
Most studies have examined the relationship between BMI and risk
of disease. Therefore we do not know whether two people with the
same BMI but different amounts of fat have different risks for disease.
It is important to remember that weight is only one factor related
to disease. If you have questions or concerns about the appropriateness
of your weight, please discuss them with your health care provider.
How is BMI interpreted differently for children (2 –
20 years) than adults?
BMI is calculated with the same formula for children and adults,
but the results are interpreted differently. For adults the use
of BMI to define overweight does not depend on age or gender. For
children ages 2 – 20 years, BMI is plotted on a growth chart
specific for age and gender. |
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