Reprinted from the Health District's quarterly publication mailed to district residents (Spring 2002)
TOPIC: How Do You Measure Up? Calculate Your BMI
 


Body mass index (BMI) is a relationship between weight and height that is associated with body fat and health risks, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

To calculate your BMI, try the online calculator at left.

Interpreting Your Score:
Less than 18.5 — Underweight
18.5 to 24.9 — Normal
25.0 to 29.9 — Overweight
30.0 or higher — Obese

While BMI is a useful tool, it doesn't take into account the location of body fat and it may not be accurate for those who are very muscular.
 

More on the obesity issue
www.surgeongeneral.gov/topics/obesity www.health.gov/healthypeople www.americanheart.org
Click on "healthy lifestyle"