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BMI Calculator with Asian Cut-offs

This BMI calculator uses the WHO cut-offs for South Asian adults: healthy is 18.5–22.9, overweight 23–27.4 and obesity 27.5 or more. These are lower than the international cut-offs, because Pakistanis develop diabetes and heart risk at lower body weights.
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  • Asian cut-offs

Reviewed by Sadaf Sajid, M.Phil, Consultant Dietitian · Last updated

BMI calculator (Asian cut-offs)

Uses WHO cut-offs for South Asian adults (overweight from 23, obesity from 27.5). BMI is a screening tool, not a diagnosis.

Why Asian BMI cut-offs?

At the same BMI, South Asians tend to carry more body fat and more belly fat than Europeans, and develop type 2 diabetes earlier. The WHO expert consultation (2004) and many Asian guidelines therefore use lower action points.

Category International BMI South Asian BMI
Underweight < 18.5 < 18.5
Healthy 18.5–24.9 18.5–22.9
Overweight 25–29.9 23–27.4
Obesity ≥ 30 ≥ 27.5

BMI's limits

BMI doesn't separate muscle from fat, and doesn't show where fat sits. Check your waist-to-height ratio too. Athletes, older adults and pregnant women need other measures.

Want a plan made for you? Book an appointment with Sadaf Sajid, in clinic at E-11/3 or online.

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Frequently asked questions

What is a healthy BMI for Pakistanis?

For South Asian adults, a BMI of 18.5–22.9 is considered healthy. Overweight starts at 23 and obesity at 27.5.

Is BMI accurate?

BMI is a useful screening number but doesn't measure body fat directly. Combine it with waist measurement and a dietitian's assessment.

Aksar Pooche Jane Wale Sawalat (Roman Urdu)

Pakistani ke liye sahi BMI kitna hai?

18.5 se 22.9 tak sehatmand hai. 23 se zyada overweight aur 27.5 se zyada motapa samjha jata hai.

Related services

This page is for general education and does not replace advice from your doctor. Nutrition therapy works alongside medical treatment; never stop or change medication without your doctor. Individual results vary.

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