Using the BMI Calculator responsibly
Page-specific guidance based on this calculator’s implemented method, inputs, and known limits.
What this result is useful for
BMI relates weight to height and is used as a population-level screening measure. This page supports adult BMI and, where selected, age- and sex-specific pediatric percentile calculations. A category is a screening signal, not a diagnosis or complete description of health.
Assumptions and limits
BMI does not directly measure body fat, fitness, bone density, pregnancy changes, or fat distribution. Adult cut points do not apply to children. Pediatric interpretation depends on accurate age, sex, height, and weight and uses the stated reference data.
How to check the result
Recheck units before interpreting the result: kilograms with metres squared, or the equivalent converted values. Unexpected results should be confirmed with a clinician who can consider growth history, body composition, medications, symptoms, and other relevant measurements.