BMI defines the relationship of your weight to your height and gives an estimate of body fat. Body fat
is an important indicator of your risk for disease. To estimate BMI weigh yourself on a beam balance
scale if possible, in light clothing and without shoes. Record your weight to the nearest ½ pound.
Height should be measured without shoes, standing erect, with your feet together and your heels against
the wall. Have someone place a block of wood or a clipboard flat on the top of your head. Height should
be measured to the nearest ¼ inch.
A score of 18.5-25 is associated with the least risk of early death. All overweight and obese
adults (age 18 years of age or older) with a BMI of 25 or greater are considered at risk for increased
health problems. Individuals with a BMI of 25 to 29.9 are considered overweight, while those with a
BMI of 30 or greater are considered obese. As a general rule of thumb, a BMI of 27 or more indicates
increased risk of health problems and mortality.