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Written by Allen Black
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Adolphe Quetelet, a Belgian scientist, was the developer of the ‘Quetelet Index’, which we know today as BMI (Body Mass Index). The calculation is done using a person’s weight and height to arrive at a BMI index (number) to measure their body fat. The BMI number assists physicians in diagnosing health problems that may be weight related. However, BMI should not be used as the only tool to determine if a person’s weight poses a health risk. A skinfold thickness test should also be carried out and, before making a final assessment, the physician should take the patient’s medical history, family history, diet and level of activity into account.
The formula for calculating BMI is:
METRIC: The person’s body weight in kilograms divided by the height in meters, squared.
IMPERIAL: The person’s body weight in pounds divided by the height in inches, squared.
Having arrived at the BMI number, using the above formula with weight and height, the following was established:
Below 18.5 – underweight.
18.5 – 24.9 – normal.
25.0 – 29.9 – overweight
30.0 and above – obese.
The international classification of underweight, overweight and obesity, according to BMI, is clearly shown by the WHO (World Health Organization). The World Health Organization has used BMI since the 1980s to observe obesity, as well as underweight conditions such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. Symptoms of these eating disorders are explained in more detail later in this article.
Due to the fact that the BMI calculation uses weight and height, it is popular way to determine if a person is overweight or obese. It is an inexpensive and easy method to establish a person’s weight status in comparison to those of the general public. |
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