The Broca Index
The Broca Index is one of the oldest and simplest formulas for estimating ideal body weight. Developed by French surgeon Paul Broca in 1871, it provides a quick mental calculation: for men, ideal weight in kg = height in cm - 100; for women, multiply by 0.9.
Simplicity vs Accuracy
While the Broca Index is easy to remember and calculate, it's less accurate than modern formulas. It tends to overestimate ideal weight for shorter people and underestimate for taller people. It also doesn't account for body frame, muscle mass, or age.
Historical Significance
Despite its limitations, the Broca Index was widely used in the 19th and early 20th centuries and laid the groundwork for more sophisticated formulas like Devine and Hamwi. It remains useful as a quick, rough estimate.
Quick Tips
- BMI alone doesn't reflect overall health
- TDEE varies based on activity level
- Consult a healthcare professional for medical decisions
Frequently Asked Questions
Rarely in clinical practice, but it's useful as a quick mental estimate.
Less accurate than modern formulas, especially for people far from average height.
To account for generally lower muscle mass and lighter bone structure.
For accuracy, use modern formulas like Devine or an average of multiple formulas.
Created by Paul Broca in 1871, it was the first widely-used ideal weight formula.