Body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight. It is used as a screening tool for obesity, which is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer. BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared. For men, a BMI of 25 or higher is considered overweight, and a BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese.
Calculating BMI is important because it can help men identify their risk of obesity-related health problems. BMI is also used to track weight loss progress and to monitor the effectiveness of weight loss treatments. The concept of BMI was first developed in the early 19th century by Belgian mathematician and statistician Adolphe Quetelet.