What is Body Mass Index (BMI)?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a ratio between a person’s weight and height and interpreted as a BMI score. This BMI score is then used as a tool to screen for obesity or excessive body fat. While it does not actually measure body fat directly, according to The Center for Disease Control (CDC), the BMI scores generally correlate with a person’s body fat percentage. Source: http://cnsnews.com/news/article/69436

How is BMI calculated?

There is a mathematical formula used to calculate Body Mass Index using an individual’s height and weight. To calculate BMI, divide weight in pounds (lbs) by height in inches (in) squared and multiply by a conversion factor of 703.
Example: Weight = 150 lbs, Height = 5'5" (65")
Calculation: [150 ÷ (65)2] x 703 = 24.96
BMI can also be automatically calculated using a BMI calculator or a scale with BMI capabilities. Most Health o meter® Professional digital scales have the ability to calculate BMI with just the push of a button.

What does the BMI score mean?

A BMI score can determine if an individual’s weight is within a healthy range. Refer to the chart below.

Why should people be concerned about their BMI score?

Studies show that individuals with a BMI score in the overweight and obese range are at increased risk for many diseases and health conditions such as:
Hypertension
Dyslipidemia (for example, high LDL cholesterol, low HDL cholesterol, or high levels of triglycerides)
Type 2 diabetes
Coronary heart disease
Stroke
Gallbladder disease
Osteoarthritis
Sleep apnea and respiratory problems
Some cancers (endometrial, breast, and colon).

Do parents need to be concerned about their children’s BMI?

As with monitoring BMI in adults, a child’s BMI can help determine if they are at risk for preventable diseases such as Type 2 Diabetes and heart disease. There is also increased likelihood that an overweight child or teen with become an overweight or obese adult. An underweight BMI score can also help identify children with poor nutrition or possible eating disorders. Measuring BMI in children and teens differs slightly with adults in that further assessments are often used since other factors such as puberty and gender can influence BMI. These assessments might include skinfold thickness measurements, evaluations of diet, physical activity, family history, and other appropriate health screenings. Many schools are doing their part to help children live healthier lifestyles by starting wellness programs and providing healthier cafeteria options or measuring students’ BMI in health examinations or fitness classes. Some states have already passed legislation that requires BMI be measured and documented in school fitness reports.

How does someone improve their BMI score?

After calculating their BMI an individual should consult their primary physician to find out what their weight should be to fall into the normal range for their height. Based on that number they may need to examine their diet, adjust caloric intake and increase or decrease physical activity.

What does BMI have to do with the new Healthcare regulations?

One of the mandates put forth in the 2009 Stimulus Act requires that all EMR/EHR must now track a patient’s Body Mass Index (BMI) in addition to weight and height. Furthermore, this BMI score must be automatically calculated and displayed, not manually entered or calculated. This BMI calculation is one of the many meaningful use criteria outlined in the general certification criteria for Complete EHR’s.

Why is the government concerned with BMI and why does this measure have to be tracked as part of EMR/EHR compliance?

According to the CDC, “BMI provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.” Providers will have to electronically share their patients’ BMI scores with the CDC and other health agencies, which will streamline data collection and lead to more accurate assessment of public health. These objectives correlate with one of the goals of healthcare reform which is to decrease healthcare costs related to preventable diseases. In essence, by measuring BMI and guiding patients to a healthier lifestyle, providers may be able to help decrease healthcare costs related to these illnesses.

Helpful Links:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Page on BMI
http://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/bmi/adult_bmi/index.html