Body mass index

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

Last updated on: 15.12.2023

Synonym(s)

BMI; Body Mass Index

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DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.

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 informationThis section has been translated automatically.

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.

Authors

Last updated on: 15.12.2023

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