Medical professionals recommend measuring both body mass index (BMI) and your waist to height ratio for a more accurate result.
Calculating your body mass index (BMI) is a quick and effective way to identify weight issues that can lead to the development of chronic conditions.
You should know
Body mass index (BMI) is an internationally recognised standard used to classify the body weight of most adults.
BMI is not a completely accurate measure of body fat content as it does not take into account factors including muscle mass, bone density, overall body composition, and racial and gender differences.
It is not an appropriate measurement for various groups including:
- children 18 years and under
- pregnant people
- people 65 years and older
- very muscular people
- various ethnic communities including people of Asian, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent
- people with a physical disability.
Relying only on BMI may miss other important measurements of health, such as cholesterol, blood sugar, heart rate, blood pressure and inflammation levels, and overestimate or underestimate a person's true health.
This calculator has been reviewed by Bupa health professionals and is based on reputable sources of medical research. It is not a diagnostic tool and should not be relied on as a substitute for professional medical or other professional health advice.
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Further reading
BMI: Is it the be all and end all?
How do you measure health? We look at body mass index (BMI) and some other indicators of your health status.
Health checks in your 20s and 30s
Even when you’re young, it’s important to stay on top of your health. Learn which health checks you should be getting in your 20s and 30s.
Health checks in your 40s
As you enter your 40s, new health issues may arise. Find out what checks you should be doing.
Health checks in your 50s and beyond
As you get older, new health issues emerge. So, it’s important to stay on top of regular health checks and keep ahead of potential problems.