BMI Chart for Women (Cont.)

Body Mass Index (BMI)

Understanding BMI Results

Once a woman has determined her body mass index using the BMI chart, the next step is to interpret the results. Interpreting the BMI results will differ for adults and children under the age of 20 (see BMI for Children for more information).

The standard weight status categories associated with BMI ranges for women and men are shown below:

BMI	Weight Status
Below 18.5	Underweight
18.5 – 24.9	Normal
25.0 – 29.9	Overweight
30.0 and Above	Obese

Keep in mind that BMI is a screening tool; it is not used to diagnose any medical conditions, but instead, is used as one measure to assess a woman's weight and her risk for developing certain medical conditions. To determine if excess weight is a health risk, a healthcare provider will perform further assessments. According to recent guidelines, assessment of weight involves using three key measures:

BMI
Waist circumference
Risk factors for diseases and conditions associated with obesity.

(Click BMI and Weight for more information about these factors healthcare providers consider and medical conditions related to weight.)

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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD

Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD

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