BSA formulas
| Formula | Equation |
|---|---|
| Mosteller | √(height cm × weight kg ÷ 3600) |
| DuBois & DuBois | 0.007184 × W0.425 × H0.725 |
| Haycock | 0.024265 × H0.3964 × W0.5378 |
The Mosteller formula is the simplest and most widely used.
Typical values
Average adult BSA is about 1.9 m² for men and 1.6 m² for women.
Frequently asked questions
What is BSA used for?
Mainly for dosing some medicines and in heart tests. It is not a measure of fitness or fat.
Which BSA formula is best?
Mosteller is easy and accurate for most adults. DuBois is the oldest and still common; Haycock is often used for children.
Sources
- Mosteller RD. Simplified calculation of body-surface area. New England Journal of Medicine, 1987. Link
- DuBois D, DuBois EF. A formula to estimate the approximate surface area if height and weight be known. Archives of Internal Medicine, 1916; Haycock GB et al. Journal of Pediatrics, 1978.
Medical disclaimer: This calculator gives estimates for general information only. It is not a diagnosis or a substitute for advice from a doctor or registered dietitian. Please consult a healthcare professional before making changes to your diet, exercise or medicines, especially if you are pregnant, have a medical condition or take regular medication.
Last updated: 20 October 2026. Read our editorial policy.
