[ HELP ON USING THE CALCULATOR ]
[ HELPFUL LINKS AND RESOURCES ]
[ SOURCES OF CLINICAL GUIDELINES ]
The BMI (Body Mass Index) is a calculation based on your height and weight. The result gives an idea of how appropriate the weight is for your height. It gives health professionals a way of identifying those people who are unhealthily over- or under-weight and might benefit from further advice and treatment.
For young people and adults, a "normal" BMI is between 19 and 25.
The formula for BMI is:
BMI = Weight (in Kg) / Height (in
metres) x Height (in metres)
or put another way:
Weight divided by the height squared
(where the weight is in Kg and the height in
metres)
ENTER HEIGHT in the boxes. Use imperial or metric. If using imperial you can enter feet and inches or just total inches (in which case either leave the feet box blank or enter 0). If you are using metric, then enter the value as centimetres (cm).
ENTER WEIGHT in the boxes. Use Kg if using metric. If using imperial, you can enter stones and pounds (lbs) or just pounds (as in the American system), in which case leave the stone box empty or enter 0.
CLICK THE CALCULATE BMI BUTTON. If you have entered incorrect or insufficient height and weight details, you will be prompted accordingly. Please make the corrections then click the CALCULATE BMI button again.
Worries about weight (for young people, parents and teachers)
eGuidelines- eating disorders, overweight and obesity (needs registration - free for health professionals)
Guidelines on management of adult obesity and overweight in Primary Care- National Obesity Forum
NICE Guidelines on management of overweight and obese patients
NICE Guidelines for management of eating disorders
Guidelines for the management of malnutrition - East Lancashire Health Authority (PDF)
This BMI calculator is designed only as an aid to health workers and for general interest. It does not purport to offer individual clinical advice. Although every effort has been taken to ensure its accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for the outcomes of any clinical decisions based on its use.
If you are unwell, or if you or others have been worried about your weight, diet or eating habits, then you should consult a qualified, recognised health professional.
The design, content and visual basic scripting of the BMI calculator and information web sites are copyright 2002 Dr Rajan Bowri MBBS MRCGP.