Body Mass Index Calculator

Understanding the Body Mass Index (BMI)

Your BMI is determined by your weight divided by your height, squared.  It is designed for men and women over the age of 18 to provide an idea of your body’s ratio of muscle to fat.  Most Phase 1 studies will require a volunteer to be within a BMI range of 19 and 29, however there are some exceptions.

The more muscle you have, the healthier you are. The higher your BMI is above 25, the more you are at risk for illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes.

What the Numbers Mean

BMI	Condition
Below 18.5	Underweight
18.5 - 24.9	Normal weight
25 - 29.9	Overweight
30 and higher	Obese

Limitations of the BMI

The BMI measurement is a reliable indicator of your total body fat. The score you get is valid for most people over age 18 with the following potential exceptions: 

·  It may overestimate body fat in athletes and those people with a muscular build

· It may underestimate body fat in older people and others who have lost muscle

· You are pregnant or breastfeeding

· You have a serious medical condition

Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI)