McKinley Health Center - Body Mass Index Worksheet

The Body Mass Index (BMI) is an estimate of overall disease risk. The BMI categories are not gender specific. BMI is not a measurement of body composition (fat and lean mass). If you are pregnant, under 18, or involved with competitive athletics, the BMI may not be an accurate measure of your disease risk.

Usually, the BMI is calculated as a ratio of your weight in kilograms to your height is meters squared. To make things easier, the chart below uses pounds and inches. Simply locate your height in inches on the left, and your weight in pounds across the top. Follow the values down and across the chart. Where they meet is your BMI value.

BMI	BMI Interpretation
< 18.5	It is possible your weight may be un-healthfully low, putting you at higher risk for certain medical conditions. Check with your doctor to determine if weight gain is necessary.
18.5 - 24.9	Your BMI is in the healthy range. There is generally no health advantage for you to lose weight. Try to stay within this range throughout your life. Maintain healthful habits such as eating a balanced diet and engaging in regular exercise. Reassess your BMI at least every two years and talk to your physician if there are significant BMI changes.
25 - 29.9	If you have two or more cardiovascular disease risk factors (smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sedentary lifestyle, diabetes), weight loss is indicated. In the absence of these risk factors weight maintenance is appropriate. If you do not have cardiovascular disease risk factors yet choose to reduce weight, try a low fat, high fiber diet and regular exercise.
> 30	Weight loss is indicated to improve health and reduce disease risk. Start with the goal of reducing your current body weight by 10% using a low fat, high fiber, calorie-reduced diet and regular exercise. Check with your physician before starting a strenuous exercise program.

If you are pregnant, under 18, a body builder or competitive athlete,
this tool may not be an accurate measure of health and /or disease risk.

If you are a registered University of Illinois student and you have questions or concerns,
or need to make an appointment, please call: Dial-A-Nurse at 333-2700

If you are concerned about any difference in your treatment plan and the information in this handout,

you are advised to contact your health care provider.

Visit the McKinley Health Center Web site at: http://www.mckinley.uiuc.edu

HEd. III-192

10-11-06

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