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Check your body mass index (BMI) using our :
BMI for Adults
BMI is the short form for body mass index. BMI is an indirect calculation of the amount of fat in the body.
BMI is calculated using a formula:
In the metric system: BMI = weight in kilograms / (height in metres)2
In the imperial system, BMI = weight in pounds / [height in inches]2 x 703
Thus a number is obtained using the calculation from a person's weight and height.
BMI classification for adults
| BMI |
Weight Status |
| Below 18.5
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Underweight
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| 25.0 – 29.9
|
Overweight
|
| 30.0 and Above
|
Obese
|
In Singapore, studies have indicated that Asians have a higher amount of body fat when compared to Caucasians of the same age, gender and BMI. Hence, correspondingly, Asians would have an increased risk for cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus at relatively lower BMI levels. In Singapore, the BMI is thus classified to reflect this risk.
BMI classification in Singapore
|
BMI (kg/m2) for Adults
|
Health Risk
|
27.5 and above
23 – 27.4
18.5 – 22.9
Below 18.5
|
High Risk
Moderate Risk
Low Risk (healthy range)
Risk of nutritional deficiency diseases and osteoporosis
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The BMI interpretation in adults is independent of race, age and sex
BMI is not the best or most accurate method of calculating the amount of body fat. But it is a simple, quick and easy to use method that is popular amongst both medical professionals as well as laymen. Though it is a fairly accurate indicator of body fatness, there are certain situations that one should be aware of:
- At the same BMI, men tend to have less fat than women.
- At the same BMI, as a person grows older, the person tends to have more body fat than at a younger age.
- A person's weight includes fat as well as muscle mass. Hence, people who exercise or train a lot can have a high BMI due to an increased muscle mass. The high BMI in such individuals do not mean that they are overweight.
Weight and body fat are not the only risk factors for diseases. Hence a person's BMI cannot be used as the sole predictor of disease. Always consult your doctor if you have any concerns about your weight or disease risks.
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