Body Mass Index Calculator | Medical Weight Assessment Tool

Clinicians use BMI as an initial screening tool to identify patients who may be at higher risk for weight-related health issues. It helps guide decisions about additional assessments, counseling, and interventions. BMI is typically documented in medical records and used to track weight status over time.

BMI doesn't distinguish between fat, muscle, and bone mass, potentially misclassifying muscular individuals. It also doesn't account for fat distribution (central vs. peripheral), which affects health risk. Clinicians typically use BMI alongside other assessments like waist circumference, family history, and laboratory values.

No, some populations have different BMI thresholds for health risks. For example, Asian populations may experience increased health risks at lower BMI values (23-27.5 instead of 25-30 for overweight). Age, gender, and ethnicity should be considered when interpreting BMI results.