This page requires you to enable JavaScript in your web browser for complete functionality.

Body mass index (BMI)

Body mass index (BMI) is a number based on a person's weight and height that provides a way to estimate the effect of weight on health. The higher the BMI, the greater the risk of some diseases, including high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, stroke, osteoarthritis, some cancers, and type 2 diabetes.

To calculate exact BMI, one of the following equations is used:

  • The person's weight in pounds and height in inches: BMI = (pounds x 700) divided by (inches squared)
  • The person's weight in kilograms and height in meters: BMI = kilograms divided by (meters squared)
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Cynthia Tank		Last Updated: March 6, 2008
Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Ruth Schneider, MPH, RD - Diet and Nutrition
Rhonda O'Brien, MS, RD, CDE - Diabetes Educator

© 1995-2009, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.