BMI Calculator - Body Mass Index

What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple tool used to assess whether a person is within a healthy weight range. By using a BMI calculator, you can quickly determine your BMI value, which helps evaluate your weight status. BMI is calculated using an individual’s height and weight and is defined as body weight (in kilograms) divided by height (in meters) squared (kg/m²). This index is widely used to screen for underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obesity.

The BMI calculator is a straightforward and cost-effective method that doesn’t require complex equipment or professional medical tests, which is why it’s widely used worldwide. It assists doctors and public health experts in assessing the weight status of individuals and populations, which helps them design targeted health interventions.

However, it’s important to note that while BMI is a useful indicator, it doesn’t directly measure body fat percentage and cannot distinguish between muscle and fat. Therefore, for athletes, older adults, pregnant women, and other specific groups, the BMI result may need to be combined with other health metrics (such as waist circumference and body fat percentage) for a more comprehensive assessment.

How to Calculate BMI?

Standard BMI Calculation Method

The BMI calculation method is quite simple and applies to adults of any age. Using a BMI calculator, you can quickly determine a person’s BMI value by entering their weight and height data. The specific calculation formula is:

$$ \text{BMI} = \frac{\text{Weight (kg)}}{\text{Height (m)}^2} $$

Steps to Calculate

1. Measure your weight: First, use a scale to measure your weight and record it in kilograms (kg).

2. Measure your height: Next, measure your height and record it in meters (m). Make sure to stand straight with your feet together while measuring.

3. Apply the formula: Insert the measured weight and height data into the BMI formula for calculation. For example, a person weighing 70 kilograms and measuring 1.75 meters tall would have their BMI calculated as follows:

$$ \text{BMI} = \frac{70}{1.75^2} \approx 22.86 $$

A BMI value of 22.86 falls within the normal weight range, typically between 18.5 and 24.9.

Standard BMI Ranges

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), BMI is classified as follows:

• Underweight: BMI < 18.5
• Normal weight: BMI 18.5 - 24.9
• Overweight: BMI 25 - 29.9
• Obesity: BMI ≥ 30

These classifications provide a universal health assessment tool for public health experts, helping them identify and manage health risks related to weight.

How to Use an Online BMI Calculator

Using an online BMI calculator helps you quickly calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) and determine your weight status based on your BMI value. Here are the detailed steps to use a BMI calculator:

Input Data

1. Select Gender: First, choose your gender. The BMI calculator adjusts the reference range for weight status based on your selected gender to provide a more accurate assessment.
2. Enter Height: Enter your height in the "Height" field, with the default unit in centimeters. You can switch to other units using the unit switch button next to it.
3. Enter Weight: Enter your weight in the "Weight" field, with the default unit in kilograms. Like height, you can choose other units by clicking the unit switch button.
4. Enter Age: Enter your age in the "Age" field. This helps provide a more precise BMI evaluation, especially for children and teenagers, where age is a key factor in determining BMI percentiles. You can switch the age unit to months by clicking the unit switch button, making it more suitable for children and teenagers.

View Results

As you input data, the BMI value dynamically changes because it is automatically calculated based on the entered height and weight. The BMI health status reference bar below, marked with different colors, will show a pointer moving to the corresponding BMI index position. Similarly, the position of the color bands on the BMI health status reference bar will also change based on different age and gender inputs. When the pointer is in the green area, it indicates that the BMI index is within the healthy range, blue represents underweight, and yellow to orange and red indicates overweight or obesity.

Below the indicator bar is a simpler health status reference prompt, providing a more direct understanding of the corresponding health condition.

Important Considerations When Calculating

• Accurate Input: Ensure you accurately enter your height, weight, and age to get the most accurate BMI calculation result.
• Use by Special Groups: For athletes, pregnant women, older adults, and other special groups, the BMI calculation result may not fully reflect the actual health status. These groups are advised to combine other health indicators (such as body fat percentage and waist circumference) for a more comprehensive evaluation.
• For Reference Only: The BMI calculator provides a preliminary weight assessment and cannot replace professional medical advice. If you have any health concerns, consult a doctor or professional healthcare provider.

BMI Classification Standards

BMI Classification Standards for Different Age Groups

BMI classification standards vary by age group and gender, particularly when assessing the health status of children, adolescents, and adults. To more accurately reflect health risks, obesity is further divided into several grades.

Adult BMI Classification Standards

For adults aged 18 and over, the World Health Organization (WHO) has developed detailed BMI classification standards, with obesity further divided into three grades to better assess health risks:

• Underweight: BMI < 18.5
• Normal weight: 18.5 ≤ BMI < 24.9
• Overweight: 25 ≤ BMI < 29.9
• Obesity (Class I): 30 ≤ BMI < 34.9
• Obesity (Class II): 35 ≤ BMI < 39.9
• Severe Obesity (Class III): BMI ≥ 40

BMI Classification Standards for Children and Adolescents

For children and adolescents aged 2 to 18, BMI is calculated in the same way as for adults, but the results need to be interpreted in conjunction with gender and age. Since children and adolescents are in a growth and development period, using BMI percentiles is a more appropriate method for evaluating weight status.

According to the CDC guidelines, the BMI classification standards for children and adolescents are as follows:

• Underweight: BMI below the 5th percentile
• Normal weight: BMI between the 5th and 85th percentiles
• Overweight: BMI between the 85th and 95th percentiles
• Obesity:
  • Class I Obesity: BMI at or above the 95th percentile but below the 120th percentile
  • Class II Obesity: BMI at or above the 120th percentile (or equivalent to an adult BMI ≥ 35)

This grading system takes into account the normal growth patterns of children and adolescents and better reflects the potential impact of different weight ranges on health.

Differences in BMI Between Men and Women

There is no difference in the calculation method of BMI (Body Mass Index) between men and women; both use the ratio of weight to height to assess an individual’s weight status. However, due to differences in physiological structure, fat distribution, and metabolic rate, the interpretation of health status and risk can vary between men and women with the same BMI value.

1. Physiological Differences Affecting BMI

• Fat Distribution: Women generally have a higher body fat percentage than men, even at the same BMI. This is because women’s bodies require more fat reserves, especially during pregnancy. This difference means that the same BMI value might indicate a higher fat content for women and more muscle mass for men.

• Muscle Mass: Men usually have more muscle mass and a lower body fat percentage. Therefore, at the same BMI, men’s body composition might display more muscle and less fat, while women’s might be the opposite.

• Bone Density: Studies show that men generally have higher bone density, which can also influence BMI interpretation. Higher bone density might lead to a higher body weight, thus affecting the BMI value.

2. Differences in Health Risks and BMI

• Metabolic Rate: Men typically have a higher basal metabolic rate, meaning they burn more calories at rest. Therefore, men with the same BMI may have lower metabolic health risks, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

• Fat Distribution Patterns: Men tend to store fat in the abdomen, and this visceral fat is more associated with metabolic disease risks like heart disease and diabetes. Women are more likely to store fat in the hips and thighs, and this subcutaneous fat is less associated with metabolic diseases. Therefore, the same BMI value might mean a higher cardiovascular risk for men.

3. Gender-Specific Interpretation of BMI

Although BMI is a general health screening tool, doctors usually consider gender differences and combine other health metrics such as waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, body fat percentage, and bone density to provide a more comprehensive assessment of an individual’s health status in clinical practice.

The Importance of BMI Percentiles

BMI percentiles are an important metric for assessing the weight status of children and adolescents, based on comparisons to normal weight ranges for the same age and gender. Unlike adults, the BMI results for children and adolescents need to consider the diversity of growth and development, so using percentiles provides a more accurate and individualized weight assessment.

1. What is a BMI Percentile?

A BMI percentile is a relative evaluation method that determines a child’s weight status by comparing their BMI value to the BMIs of other children of the same age and gender. The percentile represents a child’s rank within their gender and age group. For example, a child with a BMI in the 85th percentile has a BMI higher than 85% of children of the same age and gender.

The classification standards for BMI percentiles are usually as follows:

• Underweight: BMI below the 5th percentile
• Normal weight: BMI between the 5th and 85th percentiles
• Overweight: BMI between the 85th and 95th percentiles
• Obesity:
  • Class I Obesity: BMI at or above the 95th percentile but below the 120th percentile
  • Class II Obesity: BMI at or above the 120th percentile (or equivalent to an adult BMI ≥ 35)

2. The Importance of BMI Percentiles

• Reflects Growth and Development: BMI percentiles account for the natural growth patterns of children and adolescents, providing a more flexible and accurate weight assessment method. It can reflect whether a child’s weight status is healthy during their growth phase.

• Early Detection of Health Risks: By using BMI percentiles, parents and healthcare professionals can detect weight issues, such as overweight or obesity, early and take necessary interventions. Especially when BMI is at extreme percentiles (e.g., below the 5th percentile or above the 95th percentile), it may indicate potential health problems.

• Personalized Health Assessment: Due to the significant differences in body size and growth rates among children and adolescents, BMI percentiles provide a relative evaluation method that can assess weight based on a child’s specific growth pattern. This method considers gender and age differences, making it more reflective of a child’s health status than a simple BMI value.

• Guiding Health Interventions: Based on BMI percentiles, healthcare professionals can develop personalized health plans and interventions, such as dietary and exercise recommendations for overweight children or nutritional support for underweight children.

3. Example

Suppose a 10-year-old boy is 1.4 meters tall and weighs 40 kilograms. First, we calculate his BMI:

$$ \text{BMI} = \frac{40}{1.4^2} \approx 20.4 $$

Full data table reference

Next, we refer to the CDC-provided BMI percentile chart for children. If his BMI of 20.4 is in the 90th percentile, this means his BMI is higher than 90% of boys of the same age, indicating he is in the overweight range.

Health Advice for Different BMI Ranges

According to BMI (Body Mass Index) classification, an individual’s weight status can be categorized as underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. Different BMI ranges correspond to different health risks and advice. Understanding these health tips can help people better manage their weight and improve their health.

1. Underweight (BMI < 18.5)

Health Risks:

• Malnutrition: People who are underweight are more prone to malnutrition, which can lead to weakened immunity and increased risk of infections.
• Bone Health Issues: Due to a lack of adequate nutritional support, underweight individuals may face low bone density and osteoporosis risks.
• Reproductive Issues: Women who are underweight may face irregular menstrual cycles and fertility problems.

Health Advice:

• Increase Nutritional Intake: Eat more nutrient-rich foods like whole grains, proteins, healthy fats, and a variety of vitamins and minerals from fruits and vegetables.
• Gradually Increase Calories: Gradually increase your weight by adding more meals and consuming high-calorie but healthy foods (like nuts and avocados).
• Strength Training: Moderate strength training helps build muscle mass, which can increase weight and improve body composition.
• Regular Check-ups: Ensure regular check-ups to understand your health status and nutrition levels, and seek advice from a nutritionist if necessary.

2. Normal Weight (18.5 ≤ BMI < 24.9)

Health Risks:

• Individuals with a normal weight are generally at a lower health risk level but still need to maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent weight gain and related diseases.

Health Advice:

• Maintain a Balanced Diet: Continue healthy eating habits to ensure sufficient intake of proteins, carbohydrates, healthy fats, and a variety of fruits and vegetables.
• Regular Exercise: Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly, such as brisk walking, running, or cycling, to maintain cardiovascular health.
• Monitor Weight Regularly: Regularly check your weight and body fat to ensure you stay within a healthy range and prevent weight fluctuations.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain good sleep habits, reduce stress, avoid smoking, and limit alcohol consumption.

3. Overweight (25 ≤ BMI < 29.9)

Health Risks:

• Overweight individuals face higher risks of chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
• They may experience breathing problems, such as sleep apnea.

Health Advice:

• Adjust Eating Habits: Reduce high-calorie food intake and increase fiber-rich foods (like whole grains, vegetables, and fruits) to help control weight.
• Increase Physical Activity: Engage in at least 300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 150 minutes of high-intensity exercise weekly to aid in weight loss.
• Behavioral Changes: Learn to identify and change bad eating habits, adopting healthy eating patterns like portion control and choosing low-calorie foods.
• Seek Professional Advice: Seek advice from a nutritionist or doctor to create a personalized weight loss plan if necessary.

4. Obesity (BMI ≥ 30)

Health Risks:

• Obese individuals are at a higher risk for health issues such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and fatty liver disease.
• Obesity can also lead to joint problems like osteoarthritis and other weight-related health issues.

Health Advice:

• Set Weight Loss Goals: Work with a healthcare professional to set reasonable weight loss goals, typically aiming to lose 0.5 to 1 kilogram per week.
• Structured Weight Loss Plan: Create a structured weight loss plan that includes dietary changes, increased physical activity, and behavioral interventions.
• Dietary Management: Follow a low-calorie, low-fat diet, increase protein and fiber intake, and reduce processed foods, sugar, and saturated fat consumption.
• Regular Exercise: Combine aerobic exercise with strength training, aiming for at least 300 minutes of exercise weekly to promote weight loss and boost metabolism.
• Medical Intervention: For those with a BMI over 30 and additional health issues, consider medications or surgical interventions.

Limitations and Practical Applications of BMI

Although BMI (Body Mass Index) is a widely used health screening tool, it has certain limitations when assessing individual health status. Therefore, in practical applications, BMI is often used in conjunction with other health indicators to obtain a more comprehensive health assessment.

1. Limitations of BMI

• Does Not Differentiate Between Fat and Muscle: BMI is based only on weight and height and does not account for differences in body composition. It cannot distinguish between fat and muscle. A person with a high BMI may have high fat content, but the same BMI could also appear in individuals with high muscle mass (like athletes), and these two situations pose different health risks.

• Does Not Consider Fat Distribution: BMI cannot reflect how fat is distributed within the body. Visceral fat (fat stored in the abdomen) poses a greater health threat than subcutaneous fat, but BMI cannot differentiate between the two. This difference in fat distribution is closely related to risks like metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases.

• Not Suitable for All Populations: For certain special populations, such as children, adolescents, pregnant women, older adults, and muscular athletes, the applicability of BMI is limited. Weight changes in these groups are usually associated with factors like growth, development, pregnancy, and aging, which BMI cannot accurately reflect regarding health impact.

• Does Not Consider Age and Gender Differences: Although the BMI calculation method is the same for all genders and ages, its health implications may vary. Particularly for children, adolescents, and older adults, BMI should be assessed using age- and gender-specific reference standards.

2. Practical Applications of BMI

• Health Screening Tool: Despite its limitations, BMI remains a convenient preliminary health screening tool, especially in resource-limited settings. It can help healthcare professionals quickly identify individuals with potential weight issues for further evaluation and intervention.

• Public Health Monitoring: In epidemiological studies and public health monitoring, BMI is a useful indicator. It helps identify and track the prevalence of overweight and obesity in populations, providing data support for public health policy development.

• Combined with Other Health Indicators: In clinical practice, BMI is often used with other health indicators (such as waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, body fat percentage, and blood pressure) to provide a more comprehensive health risk assessment. For example, waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio can better reflect visceral fat levels, supplementing BMI’s limitations.

• Individual Health Management: For individuals

, knowing their BMI and combining it with other health assessment results can help them understand their weight status and health risks and make corresponding lifestyle adjustments, such as changing eating habits and increasing physical activity.

Cultural and Ethnic Influences on BMI

BMI (Body Mass Index) application and interpretation may differ significantly across different cultural and ethnic groups. These differences mainly stem from race-specific differences in body shape, fat distribution, bone density, and lifestyle. Therefore, BMI standards and health risk assessments may need adjustments based on different racial and cultural backgrounds.

1. Differences in Body Shape and Fat Distribution

• Asian Populations: Studies show that Asian populations may develop metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease risks at lower BMI levels. This is mainly because Asians are more prone to storing visceral fat in the abdomen, even with a lower overall BMI. As a result, the obesity-related disease risk threshold is lower for Asian populations than for Western populations. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that the overweight and obesity standards for Asian populations be set at BMI ≥ 23 and BMI ≥ 25, respectively.

• African American Populations: African Americans typically have higher bone density and muscle mass, and at the same BMI, their body fat percentage is often lower. This means that African Americans may still be within a healthy weight range at a relatively higher BMI, and the same BMI might indicate different health risks for them.

• Hispanic Populations: The fat distribution pattern of Hispanic populations also differs from that of Caucasians, as they are more likely to store fat in the abdomen, which is associated with increased risks of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, for this group, BMI's effectiveness as a predictor of health risks may need further combination with indicators like waist circumference.

2. Cultural Factors Influencing BMI

• Dietary Habits: Different cultures' dietary habits significantly affect BMI. For example, traditional Asian diets are primarily plant-based with vegetables and fish, relatively low in fat, while Western diets are usually high in fat and sugar. Changes in dietary habits (like Westernization) can directly impact BMI and health risks across different ethnicities.

• Physical Activity: The emphasis on physical activity varies among different cultural backgrounds. Some cultures encourage daily physical activities, such as walking or cycling, which positively impact weight control and BMI. In other cultures, sedentary lifestyles are more prevalent, which may lead to higher BMI and associated health risks.

• Body Image and Social Norms: In some cultures, higher body weight may be seen as a sign of health and wealth, while in others, a slim figure may be more desirable. Social acceptance of body shape and aesthetics influences people's attitudes toward BMI and weight management.

3. The Need to Adjust BMI Standards

Due to significant differences in body shape, fat distribution, and health risks among different races and cultural backgrounds, researchers and health institutions recommend considering race-specific factors when evaluating BMI. For example, the WHO and other health organizations usually adjust the definition of obesity based on racial differences when recommending BMI classification standards for different races to predict health risks more accurately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How to Lower My BMI？

If your BMI calculator results show that you are in the overweight or obese range, lowering your BMI may be an important goal for improving your health. Reducing BMI typically involves reducing body fat, increasing muscle mass, and improving overall health. Here are some effective strategies and suggestions that can help you lower your BMI:

1. Adjust Eating Habits

• Reduce Calorie Intake: A basic principle of weight loss is to consume fewer calories than you burn. You can control your daily calorie intake by reducing high-calorie, high-fat, and high-sugar foods. Choose low-calorie, nutrient-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

• Increase Dietary Fiber: High-fiber foods can increase satiety, help control appetite, and prevent overeating. Fiber-rich foods include oatmeal, brown rice, beans, vegetables, and fruits.

• Control Portion Sizes: Pay attention to portion sizes to avoid consuming too much food at once. Use smaller plates, carefully read food labels, and eat according to the recommended portions to effectively control calorie intake.

• Reduce Eating Out: Minimize eating out, especially fast food and fried foods, as these foods are usually high in calories, fat, and salt. Cooking at home allows you to better control the ingredients and cooking methods.

2. Increase Physical Activity

• Engage in Aerobic Exercise: Aerobic exercise is an effective way to lose weight and lower BMI. Recommended aerobic exercises include brisk walking, running, swimming, cycling, and dancing. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of high-intensity aerobic exercise per week.

• Strength Training: Increasing muscle mass can boost your basal metabolic rate, helping to burn more calories. Strength training can include using dumbbells, barbells, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises (like push-ups, pull-ups, and squats). Perform strength training 2-3 times a week, targeting major muscle groups.

• Increase Daily Activity: In addition to planned exercise, increasing daily physical activity is also important. For example, choose to walk or cycle to work, take the stairs instead of the elevator, and stay active while doing household chores.

3. Change Lifestyle

• Maintain Regular Sleep: Adequate sleep is crucial for weight loss and maintaining a healthy BMI. Adults should ensure 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Good sleep helps regulate hormone balance and reduces the tendency to overeat.

• Manage Stress: Chronic stress can lead to overeating and weight gain. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga to help manage stress.

• Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Smoking and drinking can have various negative effects on health and may lead to weight gain. Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake can improve overall health and help with weight loss.

4. Monitor Progress Regularly

• Use a BMI Calculator: Regularly use a BMI calculator to monitor your BMI changes, which can help you understand the effects of weight loss and adjust your plan. Measure your weight and height once a month and record changes to track progress.

• Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable weight loss goals, such as losing 0.5 to 1 kilogram per week. Achieving small goals gradually builds confidence and motivation.

5. Seek Professional Help

• Consult Healthcare Experts: If you have difficulty losing weight or have health issues, seek advice from a doctor or registered dietitian. They can create a personalized weight loss plan based on your specific situation.

• Join Supportive Programs: Joining a weight loss support group or seeking guidance from a professional health coach can provide additional support and motivation, helping you stick to a healthy lifestyle.

By following these methods, you can gradually lower your BMI and improve your overall health. Remember that healthy weight loss is a long-term process that requires patience and persistence.

Is BMI the Same As Body Fat?

BMI (Body Mass Index) and body fat percentage are two metrics commonly used to assess an individual's health status, but they are not the same. While both involve measurements related to weight and body fat, they differ in calculation methods, meanings, and applications.

1. Definition and Calculation of BMI

BMI is calculated using a person’s weight and height, with the formula:

$$ \text{BMI} = \frac{\text{Weight (kg)}}{\text{Height (m)}^2} $$

BMI values are used to assess whether a person is within a healthy weight range. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) standards, BMI can help categorize underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obesity. However, BMI only reflects the ratio of weight to height and does not differentiate between weight components like fat and muscle.

2. Definition and Calculation of Body Fat Percentage

Body fat percentage refers to the proportion of fat in a person’s body relative to their total weight. It is a more direct body composition metric that provides more accurate information about a person’s fat content. Typically, body fat percentage is measured through the following methods:

• Skinfold Thickness Measurement: Using calipers to measure skinfold thickness at various body parts, then estimating body fat percentage based on formulas.
• Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA): Measuring bone density, muscle mass, and fat content through X-ray scanning.
• Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA): Estimating body fat percentage by measuring body resistance to electrical current, as fat and muscle have different conductivity.
• Underwater Weighing: Calculating body density by comparing body weight in the air and underwater, then estimating body fat percentage.

3. Differences Between BMI and Body Fat Percentage

• Calculation Basis: BMI is a simple mathematical formula based on weight and height, while body fat percentage requires specific equipment or techniques for measurement.

• Content Assessed: BMI provides a rough health assessment, reflecting the relationship between weight and height. It does not distinguish between fat and other components (like muscle and bone). Body fat percentage directly measures the proportion of body fat, more accurately reflecting a person’s fat content.

• Applicability: BMI is a quick screening tool suitable for most adults but limited for specific groups (like athletes, older adults, pregnant women, etc.). Body fat percentage is suitable for more personalized health assessments, especially for individuals requiring precise fat content measurements.

• Health Risk Assessment: Although BMI correlates with health risks (such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, etc.), it cannot solely determine individual health risk. Body fat percentage more accurately reflects health risk, as excessive body fat is an independent risk factor for various chronic diseases.

4. How to Combine

BMI and Body Fat Percentage for Health Assessment

While BMI and body fat percentage are useful indicators for assessing weight and health status, it’s best to use both to obtain a more comprehensive health assessment. For example, someone with a normal BMI but a high body fat percentage may still have health risks. Similarly, someone with a high BMI but low body fat and high muscle mass may not need to lose weight.

• Comprehensive Assessment: Combine BMI and body fat percentage with other health indicators (such as waist circumference, blood pressure, blood lipids, etc.) for a more complete assessment of an individual’s health status.

• Personalized Health Plans: Based on BMI and body fat percentage results, create more personalized health plans. For example, someone with a high BMI and low body fat may be more suited for strength training and muscle building, while someone with a high BMI and high body fat may need to reduce fat through diet and aerobic exercise.

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2021). About Adult BMI. Retrieved from CDC website.

2. National Institutes of Health (NIH). (1998). Clinical Guidelines on the Identification, Evaluation, and Treatment of Overweight and Obesity in Adults: The Evidence Report. Obesity Research, 6(Suppl 2), 51S-209S. Link

3. World Health Organization. (2007). Growth reference data for 5-19 years. Link.

4. Gallagher, D., et al. (2000). Healthy percentage body fat ranges: an approach for developing guidelines based on body mass index. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 72(3), 694-701. Link

5. National Institutes of Health (NIH). (1998). Clinical Guidelines on the Identification, Evaluation, and Treatment of Overweight and Obesity in Adults: The Evidence Report. Obesity Research, 6(Suppl 2), 51S-209S. Link.

6. Barlow, S. E., & Expert Committee. (2007). Expert committee recommendations regarding the prevention, assessment, and treatment of child and adolescent overweight and obesity: summary report. Pediatrics, 120(Supplement 4), S164-S192. Link

7. World Health Organization (WHO). (2020). Obesity and overweight. Retrieved from WHO website.

8. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2021). Strategies to Prevent & Manage Obesity. Retrieved from CDC website.

9. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). (2017). Health Risks of Overweight & Obesity. Retrieved from NIDDK website.

10. Romero-Corral, A., et al. (2008). Accuracy of body mass index in diagnosing obesity in the adult general population. International Journal of Obesity, 32(6), 959-966. Link.

11. Rothman, K. J. (2008). BMI-related errors in the measurement of obesity. International Journal of Obesity, 32(3), S56-S59. Link.

12. World Health Organization. (2004). Appropriate body-mass index for Asian populations and its implications for policy and intervention strategies. The Lancet, 363(9403), 157-163. Link.

13. Gallagher, D., et al. (1996). Body composition and markers of health in the United States: a cross-sectional study. International Journal of Obesity, 20(12), 1067-1073. Link.

14. Huxley, R., et al. (2008). Ethnic comparisons of the cross-sectional relationships between measures of body size with diabetes and hypertension. Obesity Reviews, 9(Suppl 1), 53-61. Link.