Body mass index

Authors: Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer, Prof. Dr. med. Martina Bacharach-Buhles

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Last updated on: 15.12.2023

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Synonym(s)

BMI; Body Mass Index

Definition
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A measure that indicates whether a person is underweight, normal weight or overweight. The body mass index is calculated by dividing the body weight (in kg) by the height (in m) and then squaring it

General information
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People with a BMI between 19 and 22 have statistically the highest life expectancy. Above 25, the death rate increases considerably. Below a BMI of 17.5, cachexia is assumed according to the WHO definition.