BMI calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index and understand your health category
This BMI calculator is for educational purposes. BMI is a screening tool but does not diagnose health conditions.
Consult your healthcare provider for personalized health assessments and medical advice.
Calculate your BMI
Enter your height and weight to calculate BMI
Understanding BMI and health
What is BMI?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using height and weight to estimate body fat. While not perfect, BMI is a useful screening tool to identify potential weight-related health risks in most adults aged 20 and older.
BMI categories and what they mean
- Underweight (BMI < 18.5): May indicate malnutrition, eating disorders, or other health problems
- Normal weight (BMI 18.5-24.9): Associated with the lowest health risks
- Overweight (BMI 25-29.9): Increased risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes
- Obese (BMI ≥ 30): Significantly increased risk of serious health conditions
BMI and cancer risk
Research shows that excess body weight increases the risk of several types of cancer, including breast (postmenopausal), colon, endometrial, kidney, esophageal, and pancreatic cancers. Maintaining a healthy BMI is an important part of cancer prevention.
Why excess weight increases cancer risk
Several mechanisms link obesity to increased cancer risk:
- Chronic inflammation caused by excess fat tissue
- Higher levels of insulin and insulin-like growth factor
- Increased estrogen production from fat tissue
- Effects on hormones that regulate cell growth
Limitations of BMI
BMI has some limitations to be aware of:
- Does not distinguish between muscle and fat mass
- May not be accurate for athletes, elderly, or pregnant women
- Does not account for fat distribution (waist circumference matters too)
- May not apply equally across all ethnic groups
Beyond BMI: Other health indicators
While BMI is useful, consider these additional health measures with your doctor:
- Waist circumference (abdominal obesity indicator)
- Body composition analysis
- Blood pressure and cholesterol levels
- Blood sugar and metabolic markers
Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight
For cancer prevention and overall health, aim to maintain a BMI in the normal range through:
- Balanced, nutrient-rich diet with plenty of vegetables and fruits
- Regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes moderate exercise per week)
- Adequate sleep and stress management
- Working with healthcare providers for personalized guidance
When to see a healthcare provider
Consult your doctor if your BMI falls outside the normal range, or if you have concerns about your weight, especially if you have a family history of cancer or other chronic diseases. They can provide personalized recommendations and screening.