Formula
Mosteller's 1987 simplification uses the square root of height times weight:
m² = √(cm × kg / 3600)
The result is shown to two decimal places. It is a dosing and physiology estimate, not a measured skin area.
Assumptions
- Height is centimeters and weight is kilograms.
- The formula does not change for age or sex.
Worked example
175 cm and 70 kg give a Mosteller area of 1.84 m².
Input definitions
- Height
- Standing height in centimeters.
- Weight
- Body weight in kilograms.
Limitations
This is an informational estimate for adults. It is not a diagnosis, a diet plan, or a training prescription. Pregnancy, illness, and medication can change what is appropriate.
Questions
Is this the Du Bois formula?
No. Du Bois uses a different pair of exponents. This page uses Mosteller's square root.
Can this set a drug dose?
No. A prescriber uses more than this estimate. The page only calculates the formula.