BMI is a 19th-century actuarial shortcut, not a clinical truth. Used carefully — alongside waist-to-height ratio and context — it remains the standard population screen. Compute yours below.
Elevated. Cardiometabolic risk begins to climb.
BMI does not distinguish lean mass from adipose tissue. Athletes routinely register "overweight" by BMI alone. Combine with waist-to-height ratio (target < 0.5), metabolic panel, and a clinician's reading.
Formula.BMI = kg / m². Identical to Quetelet's 1832 index.
Limitations. Insensitive to body composition, age, ethnicity, frame.
Better used with. Waist circumference, A1C, lipid panel, blood pressure.