Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight. It is calculated by dividing weight, measured in kilograms (kg), by the square of height, measured in centimeters (cm): BMI = kg/cm2.
BMI is a useful tool for screening for weight-related health problems, such as obesity and underweight. It is also used to track changes in body composition over time. BMI was developed by a Belgian statistician named Adolphe Quetelet in the 19th century.