Body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adult men and women. It is an inexpensive and easy screening method for weight category – underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity.
Knowing your BMI can help you assess your risk for certain health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer. In 1972, Ancel Keys developed the body mass index (BMI) formula, which is still used today to assess body weight in adults.