Before you get started with a weight management plan, you may want to evaluate your current weight and health risks. You can do this by assessing your Body Mass Index, or BMI. Your BMI is a measure of your weight compared to your height, and it has been shown to be a reliable predictor of health risks. You can use the online body mass index (BMI) calculator or print the following handout:

• English: Body Mass Index & Your Lifestyle for Adults*
• Spanish: Índice de Masa Corporal y el estilo de vida en los adultos*

Understanding Your Results

In general, the higher your BMI, the more health risks you may have. A BMI above 25 indicates that you can be at increased risk for many health complications, including coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, and some types of cancer. If your BMI is over 30 your risk is increased.

Some people with a high BMI develop "pre-diabetes," or elevated blood glucose. While this is not the same as diabetes, it can lead to diabetes if not prevented. For more information, read the following:

• English: Pre-Diabetes: Frequently Asked Questions*
• Spanish: Prediabetes: Preguntas mas frecuentes*

Once you understand your BMI, you can better adjust your lifestyle to lose weight and decrease your risks.

Prevention Guidelines For Adults*
Take a look at a few other ways you can live healthier, based on your age range.
Smoking - Call It Quits!
Quitting smoking can reduce your risk for pre-diabetes, coronary artery disease, cancer, and other diseases.

* Please note: If you are unable to view these documents, you will need to install Adobe Acrobat Reader.