1. What is the Devine Formula?

The Devine formula is a method for estimating ideal body weight (IBW) based on height and gender. It's particularly applicable for individuals with heights less than 5 feet (152.4 cm).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Devine formula:

Where:

• \( height \) — Height in centimeters (cm)
• 152.4 cm — Equivalent to 5 feet
• 0.91 — Adjustment factor per cm below 5 feet
• 50 kg — Base weight for males at 5 feet
• 45.5 kg — Base weight for females at 5 feet

Explanation: The formula calculates ideal body weight by adjusting from a standard weight at 5 feet height, with different base weights for males and females.

3. Importance of Ideal Body Weight Calculation

Details: Ideal body weight calculations are important for determining appropriate medication dosages, nutritional assessments, and setting healthy weight goals, especially for individuals with shorter stature.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter height in centimeters, select gender. The calculator is specifically designed for heights less than 5 feet (152.4 cm).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use different formulas for different heights?
A: Body proportions change with height, so specialized formulas provide more accurate estimates for extreme heights.

Q2: What is considered a short stature?
A: Typically, heights below 5 feet (152.4 cm) are considered short stature for adults.

Q3: How accurate is the Devine formula?
A: While useful for medication dosing and clinical assessments, it provides an estimate and may not account for individual variations in body composition.

Q4: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: This formula is specifically designed for shorter individuals and may not be appropriate for taller people or those with unusual body compositions.

Q5: Should IBW be used for everyone?
A: IBW is a clinical tool best used in medical contexts. For general health, other measures like BMI or body fat percentage may be more appropriate.