The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a person’s weight in kilograms (or pounds) divided by the square of height in meters (or feet). Many
diabetes and weight loss research studies require the participant’s BMI to be within certain parameters to join a study. When you sign up for a study, a study coordinator or recruiter may ask you for your BMI during the pre-screening process, therefore it is helpful to have this information ready.
Formula: weight (lb) / [height (in)]2 x 703
Calculate BMI by dividing weight in pounds (lbs) by height in inches (in) squared and multiplying by a conversion factor of 703.
Example: Weight = 150 lbs, Height = 5’5″ (65″) Calculation: [150 ÷ (65)2] x 703 = 24.96
What does my BMI mean?
<18.5 = Underweight
18.5 – 24.9 = Healthy weight
25.0 – 29.9 = Overweight
30.0 and higher = Obese
The link between BMI and body fat is fairly strong, but even if two people have the same BMI, their level of body fatness may differ. Generally:
At the same BMI, women tend to have more body fat than men.
At the same BMI, older people, on average, tend to have more body fat than younger adults.
At the same BMI, athletes have less body fat than do non-athletes.
If you are interested in your own BMI visit the CDC calculator and enter your height and weight. The automated tool will use your measurements to calculate your current BMI.
If you have any concerns about your BMI please make sure to discuss it with your provider.
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