BODY MASS INDEX (BMI)

What is Body Mass Index?

Body mass index (BMI) is a statistical measure of body weight based on a person's weight and height. Though it does not actually measure the percentage of body fat, it is used to estimate a healthy body weight based on a person's height.

What is it used for?

BMI is used to identify weight problems within a population, usually whether individuals are underweight, overweight or obese.  BMI is frequently used to assess how much an individual's body weight departs from what is normal or desirable for a person of his or her height. The excess weight or deficiency may, in part, be accounted for by body fat although other factors such as muscularity also affect BMI.

BMI Classification Chart

Classification Asians   Risk of co-morbidities Underweight < 18.5 Low Normal range 18.5 - 22.9 Average Overweight > 23 Increased* Obese I  > 25 Moderate** Obese II  > 30 Severe*** As per MOS-India Guidelines *, **, *** degree of risk of co-morbidities.