BMI Calculation and Classification
For an individual who is 5'7" (1.70 m) tall and weighs 72 kg, the BMI is 24.9 kg/m², which falls at the upper limit of the normal weight category. 1
BMI Calculation
- BMI is calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared: 72 kg ÷ (1.70 m)² = 24.9 kg/m² 2
Weight Status Classification
- According to World Health Organization criteria, this BMI of 24.9 kg/m² is classified as normal weight (BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m²) 2, 1, 3
- This individual is at the upper boundary of normal weight, just below the overweight threshold of BMI ≥25.0 kg/m² 2, 1
Clinical Interpretation
This BMI indicates the individual should maintain their current weight and avoid weight gain through regular weight monitoring and physical activity. 3
- Individuals with BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m² without cardiovascular risk factors are advised to maintain their current weight 3
- The Prospective Studies Collaboration demonstrated that mortality risk increases by 30% for every 5-unit BMI increase above 25 kg/m², making weight maintenance at this level protective 2
Important Caveats About BMI Interpretation
- BMI does not distinguish between lean and fat mass, so individuals with high muscle mass may be misclassified, while those with normal BMI but excess body fat may be missed 2, 3
- BMI has only 50% sensitivity for identifying excess adiposity, meaning half of individuals with excess body fat are not identified as obese 2
- Waist circumference should be measured alongside BMI for more complete cardiovascular risk assessment, with thresholds of >88 cm (>35 inches) for women and >102 cm (>40 inches) for men indicating increased risk 1, 3
Ethnic Considerations
- For Asian populations, lower BMI thresholds apply: overweight is defined as BMI ≥23 kg/m² and obesity as BMI ≥25 kg/m² due to higher body fat percentages and visceral adiposity at lower BMI values 2, 1, 3
- If this individual is of Asian descent, a BMI of 24.9 kg/m² would be closer to the overweight category and warrant closer monitoring 1