1. What is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to children, teens, and adults. For children and teens, BMI is age- and sex-specific and is often referred to as BMI-for-age.

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 and teens, the interpretation of BMI is specific to age and sex, using growth charts.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is an important screening tool to identify potential weight problems in children and teens. It helps healthcare providers track growth patterns and identify potential health risks.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, and age in years. For accurate results, measurements should be taken with minimal clothing and no shoes.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is BMI different for children than adults?
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 healthy BMI ranges for Indonesian girls?
A: Healthy ranges vary by age. This calculator provides interpretations specific to Indonesian growth standards.

Q3: When should I be concerned about my child's BMI?
A: Consult a healthcare provider if your child's BMI is below the 5th percentile or above the 85th percentile for their age and sex.

Q4: Are there limitations to BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so athletic children may have higher BMIs that don't reflect excess fat.

Q5: How often should BMI be checked in children?
A: Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider typically include BMI measurements at least once a year.