The Ideal Body Weight Calculator

Devine Formula:

\[ IBW = \begin{cases} 50 + 0.91 \times (height - 152.4) & \text{for males} \\ 45.5 + 0.91 \times (height - 152.4) & \text{for females} \end{cases} \]

Ideal Body Weight (IBW):

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1. What is the Devine Formula?

The Devine formula is a method for estimating ideal body weight (IBW) based on height and gender. It was originally developed for medication dosing and has since become widely used in clinical practice for various purposes including nutritional assessment and determining appropriate body weight goals.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Devine formula:

\[ IBW = \begin{cases} 50 + 0.91 \times (height - 152.4) & \text{for males} \\ 45.5 + 0.91 \times (height - 152.4) & \text{for females} \end{cases} \]

Where:

\( height \) — Height in centimeters
Male formula: 50 kg base weight plus 0.91 kg per cm over 152.4 cm (5 feet)
Female formula: 45.5 kg base weight plus 0.91 kg per cm over 152.4 cm (5 feet)

Explanation: The formula provides an estimate of ideal body weight based on the assumption that the first 152.4 cm (5 feet) of height contributes a fixed base weight, with additional weight added for each additional centimeter.

3. Importance of Ideal Body Weight Calculation

Details: Ideal body weight calculations are important for various medical applications including medication dosing, nutritional assessment, determining appropriate weight goals, and assessing fluid balance. It provides a standardized reference for what a person's weight should be based on their height and gender.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter height in centimeters, select gender. Height must be a valid positive number. The calculator will provide the estimated ideal body weight in kilograms.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the Devine formula used for?
A: The Devine formula is primarily used for estimating ideal body weight for medication dosing, nutritional assessment, and determining appropriate weight goals in clinical settings.

Q2: How accurate is the Devine formula?
A: The Devine formula provides a reasonable estimate for many adults but may be less accurate for extremely tall or short individuals, athletes with high muscle mass, or those with unusual body compositions.

Q3: Are there alternative formulas for calculating ideal body weight?
A: Yes, other formulas include the Robinson formula, Miller formula, and Hamwi method. Different formulas may be preferred in different clinical contexts.

Q4: Does the formula account for age or frame size?
A: The basic Devine formula does not account for age or frame size. Some adjustments may be made clinically based on these factors.

Q5: Can this formula be used for children?
A: No, the Devine formula is designed for adults. Pediatric ideal body weight calculations use different methods based on age and growth charts.