BMI Formula:
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BMI-for-age is the measure of body fat based on a teen boy's weight and height relative to his age. For children and teens, BMI is age- and sex-specific and is often referred to as BMI-for-age.
The calculator uses the standard BMI formula adjusted for teen boys:
Where:
Explanation: The result is compared against CDC growth charts for boys aged 13-19 to determine the percentile and weight category.
Details: BMI screening for teens can help identify potential weight problems that may lead to health issues. However, it's just one tool and should be used alongside other assessments.
Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, and exact age between 13-19 years. For accurate results, measurements should be taken with minimal clothing and no shoes.
Q1: Why is BMI different for teens than adults?
A: Teens are still growing, so their BMI must be compared against others of the same age and sex using percentile ranges rather than fixed categories.
Q2: What are the percentile ranges for teen boys?
A: Underweight (<5th), Healthy weight (5th-85th), Overweight (85th-95th), Obese (≥95th percentile).
Q3: When should I be concerned about my teen's BMI?
A: Consult a healthcare provider if BMI is below 5th percentile or above 85th percentile, or if there are sudden changes.
Q4: Are there limitations to BMI for teens?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so athletic teens may have higher BMI without excess fat.
Q5: How often should BMI be checked for teens?
A: Annual checks are typically sufficient unless there are specific health concerns.