What is my BMI?
Body mass index (BMI) is a number calculated from a person's weight and height. Healthcare professionals worldwide use BMI (a reliable indicator) to determine whether a person is overweight or clinically obese. If they are, then they have a greater risk of developing heart disease, stroke, diabetes and certain cancers (endometrial, colon and breast).
Having too much fat around the body can also mean a greater chance of developing osteoarthritis of the joints and also emotional problems such as depression and low self-esteem.
How do I calculate my BMI?
Your BMI is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in metres squared. You can estimate your BMI using our calculator:
For example:
Height: 1.70 metres
Weight: 130 kilos
Formula:
Height squared: 1.70 m x 1.70 m = 2.89
Weight divided by height squared: 130/2.89 = BMI 44.9
The result you get is then classified into the following groups:
| Recommended BMI Chart | |
| Underweight | BMI less than 18.5 |
| Ideal | BMI 18.5-25 |
| Overweight | BMI 25-30 |
| Obese - should lose weight | BMI 30-40 |
| Very obese - lose weight now | BMI greater than 40 |
It is important to note that BMI fails to take into account a person's body fat content, which is an indicator of the risk of future health problems. Also, a BMI measurement is not as accurate:
- If you're an athlete or very muscular (muscle weighs more than fat) as this can push you into a higher BMI category
- For women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- For people who are frail
Children and BMI
In recent years there has been a sharp increase in the number of clinically obese children. If present trends continue, there are fears that obesity-related diseases (such as diabetes) will occur at a much younger age than at present.
Calculate your child's BMI using the same method as for adults - weight in kilograms divided by height in metres squared. However, it is important to remember that adult BMI figures must not be used to determine whether a child is overweight or obese. Specific age-adjusted charts are needed.
Waist circumference
Carrying too much fat around your middle is associated with an increased risk of developing heart disease and diabetes. It's also associated with a greater risk of high cholesterol levels which, in turn, increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Tell me more about the health risks of not achieving my BMI?
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If you are overweight or obese you are at increased risk for many diseases and health conditions, including the following:
- Hypertension
- High LDL cholesterol, low HDL cholesterol, or high levels of triglycerides
- Gallbladder disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Coronary heart disease
- Osteoarthritis
- Stroke
- Sleep and respiratory problems
- Some cancers (endometrial, breast, and colon)
Find out more
If you would like to find out more about obesity surgery, or arrange a consultation, contact us today on by completing our online enquiry form for an immediate response.
