1. What is BMI-for-age?

BMI-for-age is a measure that takes into account a child's age and sex when assessing their weight status. For children and teens, BMI is age- and sex-specific because their body composition varies as they age and varies between boys and girls.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Then compares the result to CDC growth charts to determine the weight category based on age and gender.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI-for-age is the recommended indicator for screening 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 in years (2-19), and select gender. For accurate results, measurements should be taken by a healthcare professional.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use BMI-for-age instead of regular BMI?
A: Children's body composition changes as they grow, so BMI must be interpreted relative to other children of the same age and sex.

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

Q3: Is BMI-for-age diagnostic?
A: No, it's a screening tool. Further assessment by a healthcare provider is needed to evaluate health status.

Q4: What if my child is very muscular?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in muscular children. Additional assessments may be needed.

Q5: How often should BMI be calculated for children?
A: The CDC recommends BMI calculation at least annually as part of routine health supervision.