1. What is BMI for Children and Teens?

BMI (Body Mass Index) for children and teens is calculated the same way as for adults, but the interpretation is different. For children, BMI is age- and sex-specific and is often referred to as BMI-for-age. CDC provides growth charts to interpret BMI values for children aged 2-19 years.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

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

Note: While the calculation is the same for all ages, interpretation for children requires comparing the BMI value to CDC growth charts specific to the child's age and sex.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI-for-age is the recommended screening tool for overweight and obesity in children and teens. It's an important indicator of growth and development patterns.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, and age in years (2-19). For accurate results, measurements should be taken with proper equipment by trained personnel.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is BMI interpreted differently for children?
A: Children's body composition varies by age and sex as they grow. BMI-for-age accounts for these normal growth patterns.

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

Q3: When should BMI be measured in children?
A: CDC recommends BMI screening annually for all children aged 2 years and older.

Q4: Are there limitations to BMI for children?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between fat and muscle mass. Athletic children may have high BMI due to muscle rather than fat.

Q5: Where can I find CDC growth charts?
A: CDC growth charts are available at www.cdc.gov/growthcharts/.