1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a person's weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters. For children and teens, BMI is age- and sex-specific and is often referred to as BMI-for-age according to CDC guidelines.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BMI formula:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Body weight in kilograms (kg)
• \( height \) — Height in meters (m)

Explanation: The equation calculates body mass index which is a screening tool for weight categories.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is an inexpensive and easy screening method for weight category—underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the BMI categories for adults?
A: Underweight (<18.5), Normal weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obesity (≥30).

Q2: Is BMI interpreted the same way for children as it is for adults?
A: No, for children and teens, BMI is age- and sex-specific and is plotted on growth charts.

Q3: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't directly measure body fat and doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, etc.

Q4: Why use CDC guidelines for BMI?
A: CDC provides age- and sex-specific growth charts that are the standard in clinical settings.

Q5: How often should BMI be measured in children?
A: CDC recommends BMI measurements at least annually as part of routine health supervision.