What does BMI stand for and how is it calculated?

BMI stands for Body Mass Index, which is a widely used metric for assessing body weight relative to height. The calculation for BMI is conducted by taking an individual's weight in kilograms and dividing it by the square of their height in meters. This formula provides a numerical value that can help categorize individuals into different weight ranges, such as underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese, based on standardized BMI categories.

This method of calculation has several benefits, including its simplicity and the fact that it does not require specialized equipment or complex measurements, making it accessible for widespread use in health assessments. The use of kilograms and meters is the standard in many countries, aligning with the metric system, which allows for consistency in measurements globally.

Other options provided do not accurately define BMI or explain its calculation, as they reference incorrect terms, methods, or variables that do not apply to the established BMI formula.