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Menu title: BMI: Body Mass Index



BMI: Body Mass Index

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Calculate Your BMI

Overview

The term BMI is often used when discussing the obesity epidemic, but what is BMI?

BMI stands for Body Mass Index. It is a number that shows body weight adjusted for height. BMI can be calculated with simple math using inches and pounds, or meters and kilograms. For adults aged 20 years or older, BMI falls into one of these categories: underweight, normal, overweight, or obese.

Note: BMI for Children and Teens based on gender and age specific charts.

BMI for Adults

BMI for Children and Teens
Important information on determining weight status for children and teens (2 – 20 years) and how BMI is interpreted differently than in adults.

Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to your questions here.

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This page last updated April 17, 2003

United States Department of Health and Human Services
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity