General Health

BMI calculator

Body mass index, known more commonly as BMI, is a measure of the relative weight of an individual in proportion to their height. Though used by many as a measure of fitness, the equation was originally developed to measure changes in population dynamics and overall health in populations. The calculation does not take into account the actual fat on the individual and can be fooled by increased muscle mass and age.

The equation is rather simple, but many online calculators are available to easily calculate your BMI, as well as height and weight tables.

Image: National Cancer Institute

How you can use a BMI calculator to determine health risks

by Alison Graham

How you can use a BMI calculator to determine health risks. Calculating your BMI (Body Mass Index) can be a useful tool to find out whether you are at risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease or other problems associated with being overweight su... More>

Is body mass index (BMI) a good indicator of health risks?

by C. Ray

Body mass index, or BMI, is a method of evaluating your level of body fat. Healthcare professionals use BMI as a way of identifying possible weight problems. The World Health Organization states that “globesity,” a global epidemic of exc... More>

The effects of BMI on health

by Fran Moriarty

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a mathematical function relating height to weight. It is used as a means to determine general body health. Some hold BMI up as the modern day Hygeia, Greek goddess of health. "Control your BMI, control your health." As the f... More>

Tips on improving your body mass index

by Caryl Buckstein

Your Body Mass Index provides insight into the amount of fat in your body. A widely accepted mathematical formula helps disclose this information, which also is called your BMI. The formula that determines your BMI divides your weight in pounds by y... More>

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The body mass index (BMI) of professional athletes

by T. GISKI

BMI, or Body Mass Index is a generic way of estimating the ratio of lean body mass to fat percentage in one's body. It is a baseline for the general population, and in extremely fit individuals (including athletes, fitness trainers and experts, and ... More>

FDA may ease Lap-Band BMI rules

by Dr. Deborah Bauers

The vote is in and a committee of 10 of the FDA's finest has issued a preliminary statement recommending that the US Food and Drug Administration ease lap-band BMI rules to provide a safe alternative for moderately obese individuals t... More>