1. What is BMI-for-age?

BMI-for-age is the measure used to assess weight status in children and teens aged 2-19 years. Unlike adults, children's BMI must be interpreted relative to other children of the same age and sex using CDC growth charts.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula adjusted for pediatric interpretation:

Where:

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

Note: The result must be plotted on CDC growth charts to determine the BMI percentile for age and sex.

3. Importance of BMI-for-age

Details: BMI-for-age is the recommended screening tool for overweight and obesity in children. It helps identify potential weight problems that may lead to health issues.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kg, height in meters, exact age (2-19 years), and gender. For accurate results, measurements should be taken with calibrated equipment.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use BMI-for-age instead of regular BMI?
A: Children's body composition varies with age and differs between boys and girls. BMI-for-age accounts for these normal growth patterns.

Q2: What are the BMI percentile categories?
A: Underweight (<5th), Healthy weight (5th-<85th), Overweight (85th-<95th), Obese (≥95th percentile).

Q3: How often should children's BMI be checked?
A: The AAP recommends annual BMI screening for all children aged 2 years and older.

Q4: Are there limitations to BMI-for-age?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between fat and muscle mass. Very muscular children may have high BMI without excess fat.

Q5: Where can I find CDC growth charts?
A: CDC growth charts are available at https://www.cdc.gov/growthcharts/