weight and body mass index

Weight is another risk factor that should be monitored regularly. A measure that is commonly used to evaluate if your weight may cause health problems is Body Mass Index or BMI. BMI is a ratio of weight to height.

• BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered normal weight
• BMI between 25 and 29.9 is considered overweight
• BMI of 30 or above is considered obese

The Body Mass Index, or BMI, is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by the square of your height in meters. A kilogram is about 2.2 pounds and a meter is about 39 inches. You can calculate your BMI on the Center for Disease Control site.

BMI = Weight (kg) / Height (m2)

In addition to BMI, waist circumference is also helps determine if you are at higher risk for obesity-related diseases. This measurement uses a tape measure that is placed around your bare abdomen (stomach) just above your hip bone. Men with a waist circumference of 40 and above and women with a waist measurement above 35 are at higher risk for all lifestyle related diseases.

Some medical professionals like to look at BMI and waist circumference together when determining disease risk. Below is a chart putting the two together.

Disease Risk* Considering BMI and Waist Circumference

* Disease risk for type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and CVD.
Increased waist circumference also can be a marker for increased risk, even in persons of normal weight.