What Does Your BMI Index Number Indicate?

In a world where obesity is becoming more and more prevalent, the BMI body mass index has become an important tool in determining a person’s current health state.

A report by the World Health Organization showed that the prevalence of global obesity has tripled from 1975. And as the world progresses, the rate of physical activity and mobility continues its decline.

Limited physical activity paired with excess intake of high-fat or high-sugar foods only contributes to the global dilemma of obesity. Fortunately, you can prevent obesity — but only if you become aware of it first.

With a tool like the BMI index, you can measure your body fat ratio relative to your weight and height, allowing you to take measures to prevent obesity and live a life free from diseases associated with it.

BMI CALCULATOR

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With over 20 years of experience operating on post-bariatric and massive weight loss patients, Dr. Masri can offer cosmetic surgery to those who may have been turned down by other surgeons due to their high BMI – giving them a chance to achieve their dream body.
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Body Mass Index: A Tool for Assessing Weight Condition

The BMI body mass index considers a person’s weight and height in determining body fat ratio. In general, the higher the BMI number, the greater body fat a person has. 

Although it is not a diagnostic tool, the BMI is an early detection tool against diseases associated with obesity such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. 

The great thing about body mass index for adults is that you can follow a streamline calculation for easy BMI determination. 

Here is the formula for you to calculate your BMI now: 

BMI = kilogram (weight) / meter2 (height)
BMI = pounds (weight) / inches2 (height) x 703

The weight classifications for your results are as follows: 

  • Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
  • Normal Weight: BMI from 18.5 to 24.9 
  • Overweight: BMI from 25 to 29.9 
  • Obese: BMI 30 or more

To give you a clearer picture, let’s look at this sample situation: 

Simon has BMI 38 and Mika got a BMI 35. Chelsea got 20 as her BMI index while Jimmy has a BMI of 27. 

In this example, only Chelsea is at a normal weight classification with a BMI of 20. Jimmy, on the other hand, is overweight because of his BMI at 27. Both Mika and Simon are considered obese because of a BMI of 35 and 38, respectively. After all, a BMI of 30 or higher is already classified as obese.

Factors that Influence BMI

Although BMI body mass index is a helpful tool for maintaining your weight within a healthy range, it cannot be used to diagnose any diseases caused by obesity.

At the same time, having a high BMI doesn’t necessarily mean that you are clinically obese, as you should clear this up with your physician. 

Here are some factors that contribute to a person’s high BMI index.

  • height 
  • high body weight due to muscle mass
  • rate of physical activity
  • genetics
  • diet and nutritional intake

Having a high BMI index does not mean you don’t have the power to make a 180-degree turn to a healthy lifestyle. 

Awareness is the first step, so you should seek professional medical advice and practice discipline to keep your weight in check and enjoy life to the fullest. 

high bmi index

I do not use BMI as a sole criterion in determining one's candidacy for surgery.

As all patients have individualized goals and surgical nuances, a high BMI should not prevent them from achieving their plastic surgery goals.
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Nick Masri MD

Double Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Consult Dr. Nick Masri to learn more about high BMI plastic surgery for plus size patients.