What is a healthy body weight?

There are two simple ways you can find out if you are a healthy weight - by calculating your Body Mass Index (BMI) and/or measuring your waist circumference.

Body Mass Index (BMI)

BMI compares your weight to your height.  BMI is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in metres squared.  If you enter your height and weight below, you can calculate your BMI.

Note: The BMI may not be accurate for people with greater muscle mass (such as athletes) or in older people and others who have lost muscle mass.

If your BMI is between 18.5 and 25, you are in a healthy weight range.  You should continue to maintain your weight.

If your BMI is above 25, you are above the healthy weight range.  This puts you at a higher risk of developing cancer.  Try to look for ways to improve your diet and increase your activity levels.  Remember, every small change you make counts!  Refer to some of the healthy eating and exercise tips on our website to help you work towards a healthy weight range to reduce your risk of cancer.

If your BMI is below 18.5, you are below the healthy weight range.  Being underweight puts you at risk of poor health.

If you require professional advice on managing your weight, consult your doctor or a dietitian to help you achieve a healthier weight.

Waist circumference

Waist circumference is a measure of fat stored around the abdomen (belly).  Abdominal fat is a risk factor for many chronic diseases, including some cancers, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Use a measuring tape to measure your waist circumference.  Measure the narrowest point between the bottom rib and the top of the hip (iliac crest).  Remember to breathe normally as you do so.  Ensure that the tape is firm but not too tight or too loose.

A healthy waist circumference is less than 80 cm for women and less then 94 cm for men.  You may be at a higher risk of developing cancer if your waist circumference is above the healthy range.