Calculating body mass index (BMI) with kilograms and centimeters is a crucial health metric used to assess weight status. BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight, providing insights into an individual’s risk of weight-related health problems. For instance, someone weighing 80 kilograms and measuring 175 centimeters has a BMI of 26.1 (calculated as 80 / (1.75 * 1.75)), indicating overweight according to the World Health Organization (WHO) classification.
Understanding BMI is vital for health professionals and individuals alike, as it aids in assessing obesity risk, monitoring weight loss or gain, and making informed decisions about lifestyle choices. Historically, BMI was introduced in the 19th century by Adolphe Quetelet, a Belgian mathematician and astronomer, and has since become a widely accepted tool in clinical practice and research related to obesity and related health conditions.