BMI (Body Mass Index) is a screening measure that relates weight to height.

How is BMI calculated?

BMI equals weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared.

What do BMI categories mean?

Categories provide a general screening range for underweight, normal, overweight, and obesity.

Is BMI enough to assess health?

BMI is a starting point and should be considered alongside clinical assessment.

BMI Calculator

Use this body mass index calculator to estimate healthy weight ranges for adults and quickly screen BMI categories.

Weight (kg)

Height (cm)

Your BMI

Enter both weight and height to calculate BMI.

How it works

Convert height from centimeters to meters.
Divide weight (kg) by height (m) squared.
Match the result to the standard BMI category ranges.

This tool is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.

BMI categories and what they can mean

BMI is a simple screening tool based on height and weight. It does not directly measure body fat or overall health, but it can help start a conversation about healthy weight, nutrition, activity, and risk factors. For children, teens, pregnant patients, and very muscular individuals, BMI interpretation may differ.

Underweight (below 18.5)

May be linked to low energy intake, recent weight loss, or underlying medical issues. Consider discussing appetite, diet quality, symptoms, and whether further assessment is needed.

Ask about unintentional weight loss and fatigue
Review nutrition and meal patterns
Consider follow-up if symptoms are present

Normal (18.5 to 24.9)

Generally associated with lower health risk compared to higher BMI ranges. Encourage maintaining healthy routines such as balanced eating, regular activity, and sleep.

Encourage consistent activity and nutrition
Support healthy waist circumference goals
Monitor blood pressure and glucose as needed

Overweight (25.0 to 29.9)

Can be associated with higher risk for conditions like hypertension and type 2 diabetes, especially when combined with central weight gain. Discuss achievable lifestyle steps.

Discuss diet quality and portion habits
Encourage gradual activity increases
Consider checking BP, lipids, and HbA1c when appropriate

Obesity (30.0 and above)

Often linked to higher risk of cardiometabolic conditions. A supportive, step-by-step plan focusing on sustainable changes can be helpful. Clinical assessment should guide management.

Explore small, sustainable changes first
Screen for blood pressure, glucose, and sleep issues where relevant
Consider referral pathways based on clinical judgment

Tip for clinicians: BMI is most useful when interpreted together with waist circumference, patient history, medications, and lifestyle factors. Use it as a starting point for shared decision-making.

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