What Does Body Mass Index Mean?
A trouble-free and low cost process for checking to see if a person falls into a category that may cause health problems is finding their Body Mass Index. The heaviness and height of the person is used to find the BMI number. Directly measuring body fat does not happen with BMI but comes close to procedures that do. Therefore, the BMI is used to check a person’s amount of body fat.
The numbers can be used to discover any possible weight issues in adults. It is not an diagnostic tool. You can have a high BMI. Further testing should be done by a doctor.
Using BMI is one of the best techniques for assessing how many people are overweight or obese. Since height and weight are the only numbers needed, it is cheap and simple for doctors and the public to do. BMI lets people compare their weight to the rest of the population.
Children and adults BMI is calculated the same way. Using kilograms the formula is weight/height squared. For pounds and inches the formula is weight/height squared x 703.
Those under the age of 20 have sex and age to consider. Those over 20 have a set weight class that applies to all ages and both sexes.
The standard weight status for adults is as follows:’. 5 to 24. 9 underweight, 25. 0 to 29. 0 overweight, 30 or more obese.
A connection between body and BMI does exist. The connection does differ by sex, race and age.
Remember, BMI is only one factor to consider for risk for disease. To check someone’s chances of becoming overweight or obesity related diseases, consider two other factors. The individual’s waist circumference is one factor. Other risk factors include diseases and conditions associated with obesity.
BMI group status puts people into the overweight group is their BMI number is over 25. For those with a BMI of 30 or more, they fall into the group of obese.
Keep in mind that BMI does not measure body fat directly. It is determined using a person’s weight and that includes both muscle and fat. It is possible to have a high BMI number but not be fat. Many people with BMIs in the 30 area or higher have higher levels of body fat.
Risks related to disease include numerous factors not just weight. Remember this when figuring your BMI.
Individuals who are obese or overweight have a significantly increased chance of developing issues or diseases caused by weight problems. Disease, death and weight are all part of the BMI range.
When trying to find the BMI for children use the same method as is done for adults. The standards that are used are the only difference. The age or sex of an individual affects the BMI. Body fat can change with age. Boys are different than girls when it comes to body fat.
After being calculated, the number is placed on the CDC BMI for age growth charts to discover the percentage. They are the most widely used gauge to determine the size and growth patterns of children in the United States. The percentile points to the relative position of the child’s BMI number with others of the same age and sex. The growth charts show the weight status categories used with children and teens.
Learn more about your body mass index. Stop by HealthStatus.com where you can find an easy to use BMI calculator and many more interactive health tools.
