Table 2.
Classification of undernutrition in using Body Mass Index (BMI) and Mid Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC)
| BMI | MUAC | ||
| Level | Definition | Level (cm) | Definition |
| (Kg/m2) | Males | ||
| >20 | Normal | >22 | Normal |
| 18.5 – 20 | Marginal | <22 | Malnourished |
| 17 – 18.5 | Mild malnutrition | Females | |
| 16 – 17 | Moderate malnutrition | >22 | Normal |
| <16 | Severe malnutrition | <22 | Malnourished |
| Children | |||
| >12.5 | Normal | ||
| 11 – 12.5 | Mild/moderate malnutrition | ||
| < 11 | Severe malnutrition |
Note - MUAC values from MOH Training manual for management of severe acute malnutrition, 2005