Body mass index (BMI) is a calculation of a person’s body fat based on height and weight. It is used to screen for weight-related health risks and classify obesity. For instance, a woman with a BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese and at risk for weight-related health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
BMI is important because it can help individuals understand their weight status and take steps to improve their health. It is also used by healthcare professionals to assess a person’s risk of developing weight-related health problems and to develop treatment plans.