Body Mass Index (BMI)
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Body Mass Index (BMI)
According to the CDC, "Body Mass Index (BMI) is a number calculated from a person’s weight and height. BMI provides a reliable indicator of body
fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that
may lead to health problems" (CDC, 2007).
Overweight is defined as a BMI of 25 to 29.9 while obesity is defined as a BMI of 30 or above. Thus, the recommended upper limit of body fat as a percentage of body mass is 25.0%. |
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Determine Your BMI
To determine BMI, your weight is divided by your height, squared. To calculate your BMI using the BMI calculator, first select your height in feet/inches and then enter your weight in pounds. Click on the "equals" button to see your Body Mass Index.
Limitations
The BMI calculator does have limitations. First, it may overestimate body fat in athletes and those people with a muscular build. Second, it may underestimate body fat in older persons and others who have lost muscle mass. Why the difference? BMI is calculated using weight and height only. It does not measure body composition or body fat. The calculator should therefore only be used as a general guideline to monitor trends, not as a diagnosis of your health status. Evaluation by your health care provider should be performed to determine your true weight status and associated health risks. Reminder: if you are over the Army weight standard, the only authorized body composition assessment is the "tape test" IAW AR 600-9.
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Disclaimer: The purpose of this calculator is to help you make informed decisions about your health. This calculator, and the information it provides, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. You should always consult your physician before adhering to any health related information or recommendations. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health condition.
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Overweight and Obesity: The Health of The Nation
Overweight and obesity contribute to the cardiovascular disease (CVD) burden of the Nation. Heart disease remains the number one killer of Americans, and obesity and overweight are known to influence the impact of this disease on the population. Obesity is also an independent risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD). In some studies even mild to moderate overweight is associated with a substantial elevation in CHD risk.
Over the past 2 decades, the number of cases of obesity alone has increased more than 50 percent. According to data from the 1988-1994 Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III), overweight and obesity affect more than one-half of the U.S. adult population (59.4 percent of men and 50.7 percent of women).
Army Weight Control Program (AWCP)
The Army Weight Control Program (AWCP), AR 600-9, insures all personnel are able to meet the physical demands of their duties under combat conditions, and present a trim and fit military appearance at all times. For more information, click on these available resources:
AR 600-9, The Army Weight Control Program
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Obesity Education Initiative
NHLBI Information for Patients and the Public: Key Recommendations
Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2007). BMI - Body Mass Index. Retrieved June 21, 2007 from
www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/bmi/.
