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BMI Calculator
Unveiling the Body Mass Index (BMI) Calculator, a powerful tool for deriving BMI values and corresponding weight statuses, all while factoring in age. Navigate the “Metric Units” tab for International System of Units or opt for the “Other Units” tab for seamless unit conversion into either US or metric units. It’s noteworthy that this calculator not only computes BMI but also delves into the Ponderal Index—both intricately discussed below.
Introduction to BMI: BMI, a metric measuring an individual’s leanness or corpulence based on height and weight, aims to quantify tissue mass. Serving as a prevalent indicator, it helps ascertain whether a person maintains a healthy body weight relative to their height. The calculated BMI value classifies individuals into categories such as underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese, dependent on the specified range. These BMI ranges exhibit variability influenced by factors like region, age, and further subcategories such as severely underweight or very severely obese. Given the significant health implications of being underweight or overweight, BMI, while imperfect, stands as a valuable indicator, prompting consideration of additional testing or necessary actions. Refer to the ensuing table for the BMI categories employed by the calculator.
BMI Categories for Adults: The World Health Organization (WHO) prescribes body weight recommendations based on BMI values for adults aged 20 or above.
| Classification | BMI range – kg/m² |
|---|---|
| Severe Thinness | < 16 |
| Moderate Thinness | 16 – 17 |
| Mild Thinness | 17 – 18.5 |
| Normal | 18.5 – 25 |
| Overweight | 25 – 30 |
| Obese Class I | 30 – 35 |
| Obese Class II | 35 – 40 |
| Obese Class III | > 40 |
BMI Chart for Adults: A graphical representation of BMI categories, utilizing World Health Organization data, with dashed lines signifying subdivisions within major categorizations.
BMI Categories for Children and Teens (Ages 2-20): The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) proposes BMI categorization for individuals aged 2 to 20.
| Category | Percentile Range |
|---|---|
| Underweight | < 5% |
| Healthy weight | 5% – 85% |
| At risk of overweight | 85% – 95% |
| Overweight | > 95% |
BMI Chart for Children and Teens (Ages 2-20): CDC’s BMI-for-age percentiles growth charts, separately categorized for boys and girls.
Risks Associated with Overweight: Being overweight escalates the risk of various severe diseases and health conditions. Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the ensuing risks include:
- High blood pressure
- Unfavorable cholesterol levels (high LDL, low HDL)
- Type II diabetes
- Coronary heart disease
- Stroke
- Gallbladder disease
- Osteoarthritis
- Sleep apnea and breathing problems
- Certain cancers
- Diminished quality of life
- Mental health issues
- Body pains and impaired physical functions
- Increased mortality risk compared to those with a healthy BMI
Risks Associated with Underweight: Underweight individuals face their own set of risks, encompassing:
- Malnutrition, vitamin deficiencies, anemia
- Osteoporosis
- Weakened immune function
- Growth and development issues
- Reproductive complications for women
- Potential surgery complications
- Elevated mortality risk compared to those with a healthy BMI
In some instances, being underweight may signify an underlying condition, necessitating consultation with a doctor.
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