Understanding Body Mass Index
Body Mass Index, commonly known as BMI, is a simple measurement that compares weight and height. It is widely used as a screening tool to estimate whether a person's weight falls within a healthy range.
BMI categories explained
Adults are generally classified as underweight, normal weight, overweight or obese based on their BMI value. These categories help identify potential health risks associated with body weight.
Limitations of BMI
BMI does not directly measure body fat. Athletes and people with high muscle mass may have a high BMI despite having a healthy body composition. BMI should be considered a screening tool rather than a medical diagnosis.