The DuBois Formula Calculator finds your body surface area (BSA) in square meters. BSA measures the total surface of your body, which doctors use for things like setting medicine amounts or planning treatments. You enter your height and weight, and the calculator gives you a number. It’s a trusted tool for real-life health decisions, ensuring accuracy for critical needs.
This calculator uses a proven method called the DuBois formula, widely accepted in medicine. It works for adults and kids alike, making it versatile and reliable. Want to know how it’s calculated? Let’s look at the formula next.
Formula for DuBois Calculator
The DuBois formula calculates body surface area (BSA) with this equation:

Where:
- BSA is measured in square meters (m²)
- Height is measured in centimeters (cm)
- Weight is measured in kilograms (kg)
Alternative Units
If you use inches and pounds instead, convert them first:
- Height in inches: Multiply by 2.54 to get cm
- Weight in pounds: Divide by 2.2046 to get kg
Then use this version: BSA = 0.007184 × (Height × 2.54)^0.725 × (Weight ÷ 2.2046)^0.425
This formula comes from medical research and balances height and weight to estimate BSA accurately. Now, let’s simplify it with a table.
Quick Reference Table for Body Surface Area
Why calculate every time? This table shows common height and weight combos and their BSA values. It’s a fast way to check without doing the math.
Height (in) | Weight (lbs) | BSA (m²) |
---|---|---|
60 | 120 | 1.50 |
65 | 150 | 1.73 |
70 | 180 | 1.94 |
75 | 200 | 2.10 |
How to Use the Table
- Find your height and weight.
- Check the BSA value.
- Use it for quick planning.
This table helps with searches like “BSA for 70 inches and 180 lbs.” For exact results, use the formula. Next, let’s try an example.
Example of Dubois Formula Calculator
Suppose you’re 68 inches tall and weigh 160 pounds. You want to know your BSA. Here’s how to do it:
- Convert height to cm:
Height = 68 × 2.54 = 172.72 cm - Convert weight to kg:
Weight = 160 ÷ 2.2046 = 72.57 kg - Plug into the formula:
BSA = 0.007184 × Height^0.725 × Weight^0.425
BSA = 0.007184 × 172.72^0.725 × 72.57^0.425 - Calculate step-by-step:
- Height^0.725 ≈ 42.87
- Weight^0.425 ≈ 6.77
- BSA = 0.007184 × 42.87 × 6.77 ≈ 1.85 m²
So, your BSA is about 1.85 square meters. This matches medical standards and is useful for health purposes.
Most Common FAQs
Doctors use BSA to set safe medicine doses or check body health, like for burns or fitness.
Yes, the DuBois formula works for all ages, as long as you have accurate height and weight.
Convert them to cm and kg using the alternative formula—it’s just as accurate.