What is the ideal weight range in kilograms for an Asian woman of average height?

Ideal Weight Range for Asian Women of Average Height

For an Asian woman of average height (approximately 157-160 cm), the ideal weight range is 48-60 kg, corresponding to a BMI of 18.5-23.9 kg/m², with particular attention to maintaining waist circumference below 80 cm. 1, 2

Weight Calculation Based on Asian-Specific BMI Standards

Asian populations require lower BMI thresholds than Western populations due to higher body fat percentages and greater visceral adiposity at equivalent BMI levels. 1, 2, 3

For Average Height Asian Women (157-160 cm):

• Normal/healthy weight range: 48-60 kg (BMI 18.5-23.9 kg/m²) 1, 4
• Overweight threshold begins at 60 kg (BMI ≥23 kg/m²) 1, 2
• Obesity threshold begins at 65 kg (BMI ≥25 kg/m²) 1, 2, 3

Modified Devine Formula Application:

Using the modified Devine formula for women: 48.67 kg + 1.65 kg/inch of height >5 feet, an Asian woman of 5'2" (157 cm) would have an ideal body weight of approximately 52 kg. 5

Critical Distinction: Asian vs. Western Standards

The World Health Organization and American Diabetes Association recommend ethnicity-specific cutoffs for Asian populations because Asians develop cardiometabolic disease at BMI levels 2-3 kg/m² lower than Caucasians. 1, 2, 3

Key Differences:

• Western overweight threshold: BMI ≥25 kg/m² 6
• Asian overweight threshold: BMI ≥23 kg/m² 1, 2, 4
• Western obesity threshold: BMI ≥30 kg/m² 6
• Asian obesity threshold: BMI ≥25 kg/m² 1, 2, 3

Essential Complementary Measurement: Waist Circumference

BMI alone is insufficient for Asian women—waist circumference must be measured to identify metabolically obese normal weight (MONW) phenotype. 2

Waist Circumference Thresholds for Asian Women:

• Increased cardiometabolic risk: ≥80 cm 1, 2, 4
• High risk: ≥85 cm 4

Asian women can have "normal" BMI (18.5-22.9 kg/m²) yet carry excess visceral fat and demonstrate insulin resistance, making waist circumference measurement mandatory. 2

Clinical Rationale for Lower Thresholds

Body Composition Differences:

• Asians have 2-3 kg/m² lower BMI for the same body fat percentage as Caucasians 2, 3
• Preferential visceral fat accumulation occurs in Asian populations, particularly South Asians 2
• Insulin resistance manifests even in lean Asian individuals 2

Disease Risk Profile:

• Cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome develop at BMI 22-25 kg/m² in Asian populations 3, 7
• The proportion of Asian people with high risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease is substantial at BMIs lower than 25 kg/m² 3

Practical Application Algorithm

Step 1: Calculate BMI

• Measure height and weight accurately 1
• Calculate: weight (kg) / [height (m)]² 1

Step 2: Assess Against Asian-Specific Standards

• BMI <18.5: Underweight 5, 1
• BMI 18.5-22.9: Normal weight (ideal range) 1, 4
• BMI 23.0-24.9: Overweight 1, 2
• BMI ≥25.0: Obese 1, 2, 3

Step 3: Measure Waist Circumference

• Measure at midpoint between superior iliac crest and lower margin of last rib 2
• If ≥80 cm: Increased risk regardless of BMI 1, 2, 4
• If ≥85 cm: High risk requiring intervention 4

Step 4: Screen for Metabolic Complications

• Fasting glucose, lipid panel (triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol), blood pressure 2
• Screen for insulin resistance markers even in lean individuals 2

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Do not apply Western BMI standards (25/30 kg/m² cutoffs) to Asian women—this will miss 40-50% of individuals at increased cardiometabolic risk. 2, 3

Do not rely on BMI alone—a "normal weight" Asian woman with waist circumference ≥80 cm may have metabolically obese normal weight phenotype with significant health risks. 2

Do not assume all Asian populations are identical—South Asians demonstrate even greater insulin resistance and visceral adiposity than East Asians at equivalent BMI levels. 2