Introduction

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a number calculated from a person’s weight and height. BMI provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.

We also have information on the following:

• About BMI for Adults: Information about BMI and interpreting this number for adults
• About BMI for Children and Teens: Information about BMI and interpreting the BMI percentile for children and teens
• Nutrition and Weight Resources: Links to additional resources for BMI

Note that the information about children and teens is written primarily for parents, but it may also be of interest to others, such as healthcare providers and the general public.

Source : www.cdc.gov