What does BMI stand for?

BMI stands for Body Mass Index, a numerical value derived from an individual’s weight and height to estimate body fat and assess overall health. It is calculated using the formula: weight (kg) ÷ [height (m)]². A BMI below 18.5 indicates underweight, 18.5–24.9 is normal, 25–29.9 is overweight, and 30 or above indicates obesity. Although BMI doesn’t directly measure fat percentage or distribution, it is widely used to screen for weight-related health risks like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Healthcare professionals use it along with other assessments for a more accurate picture of health.