Body Mass Index – BMI

What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a person’s weight divided by his/her height. BMI is used as a fat amount indicator in the body; the higher the BMI, the higher the fat in the body.
It can also be useful to screen weight categories that may lead to health problems, although it is not necessarily a way to diagnose diseases associated with overweight. It does not determine an individual’s health or wellness. If a person’s BMI is outside of the healthy range, weather too high or too low, their health risks may increase significantly.

How is BMI used?

To determine if a high BMI is a health risk, a healthcare provider would need to perform further assessments, including skin fold thickness measurements, evaluations of diet, physical activity, family history, and other appropriate health screenings.

Why is BMI used to measure overweight and obesity?

BMI can be used for population evaluation of overweight and obesity. It is inexpensive and easy way to for clinicians and the general public to have an idea of their level of obesity. BMI can be used as a screening tool for body fatness.

How is BMI calculated?

BMI is calculated the same way for adults and children. The calculation is based on the following formulas:

A BMI of over 30 indicates that you are heavily overweight. Your health may be at risk if you do not lose weight. We recommend you to talk to your doctor or a dietitian for advice.
At Long Term WLS, our goal is to help you achieve a healthy weight, and thus reduce the risk of living with any disease associated with obesity, regaining a better quality of life, with long lasting results.