A body mass index (BMI) of 22 falls into which category according to common classifications?

A body mass index (BMI) of 22 falls into which category according to common classifications?

• A. Anorexia nervosa.
• B. Overweight.
• C. Obesity.
• D. Normal range: 20-24.9.

Answer: (D)

Body mass index (BMI) helps gauge weight status relative to height. The common cutoffs are underweight less than about 18.5, normal weight roughly 18.5 to 24.9, overweight 25 to 29.9, and obesity 30 or higher. A BMI of 22 is inside the normal weight range because it lies between 18.5 and 24.9. It’s not in the underweight, overweight, or obese categories, so the normal range best fits. Remember, BMI is a screening measure, not a diagnosis, and it does not by itself diagnose eating disorders like anorexia nervosa.

Body mass index (BMI) helps gauge weight status relative to height. The common cutoffs are underweight less than about 18.5, normal weight roughly 18.5 to 24.9, overweight 25 to 29.9, and obesity 30 or higher. A BMI of 22 is inside the normal weight range because it lies between 18.5 and 24.9. It’s not in the underweight, overweight, or obese categories, so the normal range best fits. Remember, BMI is a screening measure, not a diagnosis, and it does not by itself diagnose eating disorders like anorexia nervosa.