Calculating body mass index (BMI) is a standard method for assessing body fat based on height and weight. It helps individuals determine their weight status and potential health risks associated with being underweight, overweight, or obese.
Understanding BMI and its implications is crucial for managing weight, maintaining health, and preventing chronic diseases. The formula for BMI was developed by Belgian statistician Adolphe Quetelet in the mid-1800s and has since become a widely recognized tool in medicine and public health.