Final answer:
BMI is calculated as if people were shaped like simple cylinders, without considering muscle mass or fat distribution. While useful for population studies, BMI can be less accurate for individuals with high muscle mass or differing body shapes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Body Mass Index (BMI) is calculated as if people were shaped like simple cylinders, where fat distribution or muscle mass is not accounted for. BMI is an estimate of the fat content of the body calculated by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters. A BMI of 18-24.9 is considered normal weight, 25-29.9 overweight, and 30 or above obese. High BMI values are frequently associated with higher risks of obesity-related diseases. However, BMI does have limitations because it does not distinguish between muscle and fat mass, does not consider fat distribution, and it's less useful for individuals, like athletes, who may have high muscle mass.
The ratio of waist circumference to hip circumference can be used to assess more specific risks related to fat distribution. For men, a waist-to-hip ratio greater than 0.95 indicates excessive abdominal fat. In women, a ratio greater than 0.86 indicates excessive abdominal fat. It's important to note that individuals with more abdominal fat, or 'android shape,' carry a greater risk for obesity-related diseases compared to those with fat located in the hips, or 'gynoid shape'.