BMI Categories

Definition

BMI categories are a way to classify individuals based on their body mass index, which helps in determining if they are underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese.

Scientific / Technical Definition

BMI categories are classifications defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) to categorize individuals based on their body mass index (BMI). These categories include underweight (BMI < 18.5), normal weight (BMI 18.5–24.9), overweight (BMI 25–29.9), and obesity (BMI ≥ 30). BMI is calculated by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters.

Benefits

• Provides a simple method to assess whether an individual is at a healthy weight.
• Helps in identifying potential health risks associated with different weight categories.
• Assists healthcare professionals in developing appropriate health plans tailored to an individual's weight category.

Examples

• Calculating BMI as a weight management tool.
• Using BMI categories to evaluate patient health in clinical settings.

Additional Information

• Importance: BMI categories are important for identifying individuals who are at risk of developing weight-related health issues such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension.

Related Terms

• Body Mass Index
• Obesity
• Underweight
• Overweight

References

• World Health Organization: BMI Classification
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: About Adult BMI