Body mass index (BMI) score, a metric widely used to assess healthy weight, is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by the square of height in meters (kg/m^2). It provides a simple and effective method for determining if an individual is underweight, overweight, or obese.
BMI holds significant relevance in healthcare as it serves as an indicator of overall health and disease risk. Understanding one’s BMI score enables individuals to make informed decisions regarding their lifestyle and dietary choices, promoting better health outcomes. Historically, BMI was first introduced in the 19th century by Belgian statistician Adolphe Quetelet, who recognized the need for a standardized measure to compare body weight and height across different populations.