The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on an individual’s weight and height. It is used as a screening tool to identify potential weight problems in adults. BMI is calculated by dividing a person’s weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters. For example, if a person weighs 70 kilograms and is 1.75 meters tall, their BMI would be 70 / (1.75)^2 = 22.86.
BMI is a useful tool for assessing body weight status. It can help identify people who are overweight or obese, and who may be at risk for chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer. BMI has been used for over a century, and it remains a widely accepted measure of body weight status.