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:

Where:

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

Note: For children, the numeric BMI value must be plotted on CDC growth charts to determine the corresponding percentile for age and sex.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation for Children

Details: BMI-for-age is the recommended measure for screening overweight and obesity in children. Tracking growth patterns over time can help identify potential weight problems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, and the child's age (2-19 years). For accurate results, measurements should be taken with minimal clothing and no shoes.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use BMI-for-age instead of regular BMI?
A: Children's body composition varies as they grow, so BMI must be interpreted relative to other children of the same age and sex.

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

Q3: How often should children's BMI be measured?
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. Children with high muscle mass 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/