Body mass index (BMI) is a measure that estimates body fat based on height and weight. While initially a measure of body fat, its utility has expanded to detect weight-related health risks. BMI is particularly relevant for females because it can help identify those at risk for certain health conditions.
Originally developed in the 19th century by Adolphe Quetelet, the formula for BMI is weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters (kg/m^2).