The BMI was created in 1850 as a quick method to analyze populations, not individuals.  The assumption was that this measure would be applied to sedentary populations of average frame size.

That said, why is the American medical system using this as a tool to "analyze" individuals?  Used this way it is just an unfounded bias against large people.

I am 6 feet tall with a BMI of 31.  Of course no one bothers to notice that the distance from shoulder blade to the opposite shoulder blade is considerably larger than for 95% of the females out there and I work out regularly and have a great deal of muscle on me.  That said, I will readily admit that I am overweight, but no, I am NOT the other O word!!!

I think any MD who comes at me with the BMI bludgeon is just a lazy, biased person.  But most of them are anyway.  That is why I had to figure out that I might have sleep apnea and get the test on my own, without any of the many Dr's I consulted with ever asking me if I snore or about my sleep quality. They were too busy dissing me  for my BMI index Number.

Caroline- I agree the BMI can be a useful tool but it also should have some other factors considered. A BMI of 25 or greater is considered overweight. That is A LOT OF PEOPLE!!! A BMI over 30 is considered OBESE. What??? No taking into consideration frame size or anything. Obviously a large framed person will weigh more than a small person and not necessarily be obese. Just my 2 cents for what it's worth.


_________________
EVERY SILVER LINING HAS A TOUCH OF GREY
-Grateful Dead