What is BMI?
Body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on your weight in relation to your height, and applies to most adult men and women aged 20 and over. For children aged 2 and over, BMI percentile is the best assessment of body fat. In general, the higher the number, the more body fat a person has. BMI is often used as a screening tool to decide if your weight might be putting you at risk for health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
How is BMI used?
BMI is not accurate enough to be used as a diagnostic tool. However, it is used as a screening tool to identify potential weight problems in adults. A person may have a high BMI, yet to determine if this excess weight is a health risk, a further assessments such as:
Evaluations of diet
Other appropriate health screenings
How to calculate BMI for adults?
Use body mass index (BMI) calculators to give yourself an indication of whether your weight may be affecting your health.
18.5 - 24.9
25.0 - 29.9
BMI less than 18.5
A BMI of less than 18.5 indicates that you are underweight, so you may need to put on some weight. Contact our dietitian for advice.
BMI between 18.5 - 24.9
BMI of 18.5-24.9 indicates that you are at a healthy weight for your height. By maintaining a healthy weight, you lower your risk of developing serious health problems.
BMI between 25.0 - 29.9
BMI of 25-29.9 indicates that you are slightly overweight. You may be advised to lose some weight for health reasons. You are recommended to talk to our dietitian for advice.