In order to help people determine what their healthy weight is, a simple measure of the relationship between weight and height called the Body Mass Index (BMI) is used. BMI is a number calculated from a person’s weight and height, which is commonly used by doctors and other health professionals to determine the prevalence of underweight, overweight and obesity in adults. BMI provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems. BMI is not as accurate if you are an athlete or very muscled (muscle weighs more than fat), as it can push you into a higher BMI category despite having a healthy level of body fat. It is also not accurate for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or people who are frail.
The BMI Calculator is only one guide about your overall health. Waist measurement, body fat level, blood pressure, cholesterol, physical activity, not smoking and the healthiness of your diet are also important.
This calculator provides BMI and the corresponding BMI weight status category. Use this calculator for adults, 20 years old and older.
To learn more about the importance of a healthy diet and physical activity in maintaining a healthy weight, visit the Health & Lifestyle section of this website.
For information on obesity and overweight, visit the Obesity section of the website, which you can find under Food-related Diseases.
Disclaimer
This BMI calculator will give you an idea of how your weight compares to common values. Body Mass Index (or BMI) is calculated as your weight (in kilograms) divided by the square of your height (in metres) or BMI = Kg/M2. This calculator should only be used by adults (pregnant or lactating women should not rely on these BMI readings) and no action should be taken based on its values other than to consult a suitably qualified person such as a physician.
