Cdc Teens Bmi Calculator

BMI Formula:

\[ BMI = \frac{weight}{height^2} \]

Weight:

Height:

meters

Age:

years

Gender:

BMI Result:

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1. What is BMI for Teens?

BMI-for-age is the measure used to assess weight in relation to height for children and teens aged 2-19 years. Unlike adults, BMI interpretation for children is age- and sex-specific using CDC growth charts.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

\[ BMI = \frac{weight\ (kg)}{height^2\ (m^2)} \]

Where:

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

Explanation: For children and teens, the BMI number is plotted on CDC growth charts to determine the corresponding BMI-for-age percentile.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

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

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, age between 2-19 years, and select gender. For accurate results, measurements should be taken with proper equipment.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is BMI different for children than adults?
A: Children's body composition varies by age and sex, so BMI must be compared against growth charts specific to their age and gender.

Q2: What do the percentile results mean?
A: Underweight (<5th), Healthy weight (5th-85th), Overweight (85th-95th), Obese (≥95th percentile).

Q3: Is BMI accurate for athletic teens?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so athletic teens with more muscle mass may have higher BMI without excess fat.

Q4: How often should BMI be checked in teens?
A: The AAP recommends annual BMI screening for all children and adolescents.

Q5: Where can I find CDC growth charts?
A: CDC growth charts are available on the CDC website for clinical interpretation of BMI results.