Body mass index (B.M.I.)
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In clinical practice, the body mass index allows an indirect estimate
of the body fat of an individual to be made. The body mass index (BMI)
or Quetelet index (for English speakers) is the ratio achieved by
dividing the weight of the subject (in kg) by his or her height squared
(mē). This is not an accurate assessment of body fat but it is
sufficient for clinical needs. The BMI is a biomarker that allows
monitoring of extreme cases in a population where there may be a higher
risk of mortality for very slim (BMI <18.5) and large (BMI> 30)
individuals. .
The body mass index has been defined by the World Health Organization as a standard for evaluating of overweight adults.
Standard intervals were created to help define the state in which a
given individual may find himself: underweight, normal weight (18.5 to
24.9), overweight (BMI between 25 and 29.9) and obese. Obesity is
further subdivided into moderate obesity (30 to 34.9), severe obesity
(35 to 39.9) and massive or morbid obesity (> 40).
But this BMI is an indicator and not a precise measure or criterion to
determine whether a patient is at risk of, for example, cardiovascular
problems. . In such a case, other tests should be performed, more
scientifically.
The BMI has limitations because it does not encompass the proportion
of muscle mass nor bone mass. It cannot be applied to athletes, giants,
dwarfs or amputees.
The body mass index allows quick diagnosis of obesity before using
more sophisticated methods such as measuring body density, CT scans,
etc., which are not routinely available.
The body mass index is just an index. It highlights an increase in
risk factors with excessive body fat, and an increasing risk of
mortality as the body mass index increases.