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BMI - Body Mass Index: BMI -
What Does This All Mean? |
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So you have calculated your BMI and found which weight category your
BMI matches. What does this all mean?
BMI is not the only indicator of health risk.
BMI is just one of many factors related to developing a chronic disease
(such as heart disease, cancer, or diabetes). Other factors that may be
important to look at when assessing your risk for chronic disease
include:
- Diet
- Physical Activity
- Waist Circumference
- Blood Pressure
- Blood Sugar Level
- Cholesterol Level
- Family History of disease
| BMI |
Weight
Status |
| Below 18.5 |
Underweight |
| 18.5 – 24.9 |
Normal |
| 25.0 – 29.9 |
Overweight |
| 30.0 and
Above |
Obese |
All persons who are obese or overweight should try not to gain
additional weight. In addition, those who are obese or who are
overweight with other risk factors should consider losing weight. A
complete health assessment by a physician is the best way to decide the
right steps for you.
Whatever your BMI, talk to your doctor to see if you are at an
increased risk for disease and if you should lose weight. Even a small
weight loss (just 10% of your current weight) may help to lower the risk
of disease.
Physical activity and good nutrition are key factors in leading a
healthy lifestyle and reducing risk for disease. Check out other links
to information on BMI, obesity, physical activity and nutrition.
Common Myths
Myth: BMI Measures Body Fat
Two people can have the same BMI, but a different percent body fat. A
bodybuilder with a large muscle mass and a low percent body fat may have
the same BMI as a person who has more body fat because BMI is calculated
using weight and height only.
These men have the same height, weight, and BMI, but may have
different percent body fat.
 |
| 6'3" |
Height |
6'3" |
| 220 lbs |
Weight |
220 lbs |
| 27.5 |
BMI |
27.5 |
|
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This is a good reminder that BMI is only one piece of a person's
health profile. It is important to talk with your doctor about other
measures and risk factors. (e.g., waist circumference, smoking, physical
activity level, and diet.)
Myth: BMI is a diagnostic tool
BMI alone is not diagnostic. It is one of many risk factors for
disease and death. As a person's BMI increases the risk for many
diseases increases as well. |
