1. What is BMI for Teens?

BMI-for-age is the measure used to assess weight status in children and teens aged 2-19 years. Unlike adults, BMI values for children and teens are age- and sex-specific because their body composition varies as they grow.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

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

Note: For teens, the calculated BMI should be plotted on CDC growth charts to determine the BMI percentile.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation for Teens

Details: BMI-for-age is the most widely used screening tool to identify possible weight problems in children and teens. It helps identify underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What do BMI percentiles mean for teens?
A: Underweight (<5th percentile), Healthy weight (5th to <85th percentile), Overweight (85th to <95th percentile), Obese (≥95th percentile).

Q2: Why use BMI-for-age instead of regular BMI?
A: Because children and teens are growing, their BMI must be compared against others of the same age and sex.

Q3: How often should teens have their BMI calculated?
A: The CDC recommends BMI screening annually as part of routine health supervision.

Q4: Are there limitations to BMI for teens?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between fat and muscle mass, so muscular teens may have high BMI without excess fat.

Q5: Where can I find CDC growth charts?
A: CDC growth charts are available on the CDC website and are typically used by healthcare providers.