How Do You Stack Up on the Body Mass Index?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is relatively easy to calculate.  To calculate, simply divide your weight in pounds by your height in inches squared, then multiple by 703.

Many healthcare practitioners use BMI as a means of estimating your percent body fat and from that your risk of developing certain diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease.

Disease Risk Relative to Normal Weight
                                                BMI                    Risk
Underweight                     <18.5
Normal                             18.5-24.9
Overweight                     25.0-29.9          Increased
Obesity I                          30.0-34.9          High
Obesity II                        35.0-39.9          Very High
Extreme Obesity                40+                Extremely High