BMI is a body fat measurement that is calculated by dividing weight by height. However this straight calculation does not take into account lean muscle mass and fat ratios, so it does not provide a complete picture of a person's physical health. For example, a person with a high ratio of muscle, such as a body builder, could fall into the BMI's obese category, because muscle weighs more than fat. BMI gives a general indication of proportionality.
To calculate BMI, multiply height in inches by height in inches -- in other words, height squared. Then divide weight in pounds by that result. Finally, multiply this result by 703. If a person's BMI number is less than 18.5, they are considered underweight. A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered normal. An overweight individual has a BMI between 25 and 29.9. Obese is any BMI over 30.
Lincoln University essentially stated that any student admitted with a BMI of 30 or above would have to lower that score prior to graduation. If the student did not succeed, he would be required to take a single credit fitness course that would include walking, exercises and games. The chairman of Lincoln's department of health, physical education and recreation, James L. DeBoy, explained that the purpose of the proposed policy was to promote good health in the student body. However, many people considered the policy inappropriate and offensive, so the school removed it.
Although Lincoln University stirred up controversy with its BMI requirement for graduation, administrators had students' best interests at heart. As BMI level increases, so does the risk for developing serious health conditions. These include diabetes, osteoarthritis, some cancers, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and premature death.