1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adult men and women. It is a simple and widely used screening tool to identify potential weight problems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

• \( Weight \) — Body weight in kilograms (kg)
• \( Height \) — Height in meters (m)

Explanation: BMI provides a simple numeric measure of a person's thickness or thinness, allowing health professionals to discuss weight problems more objectively with their patients.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is an important health indicator that helps assess risk for various health conditions including heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, gallstones, breathing problems, and certain cancers.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For accurate results, measure weight without heavy clothing and height without shoes. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the BMI categories for adults?
A: Underweight: BMI less than 18.5; Normal weight: BMI 18.5-24.9; Overweight: BMI 25-29.9; Obese: BMI 30 or greater.

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may not be accurate for athletes with high muscle mass, pregnant women, the elderly, or children. It should be used as a screening tool rather than a diagnostic tool.

Q3: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For most adults, checking BMI every 6-12 months is sufficient unless you are actively trying to lose or gain weight.

Q4: What is a healthy BMI range for Canadian women?
A: A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy for adult Canadian women, though individual factors should be considered.

Q5: Can BMI be used for children and teens?
A: BMI for children and teens is interpreted differently than for adults, using age and sex-specific percentile charts rather than fixed categories.