Child And Teen BMI Calculator Widget BMI CDC Formula

BMI Formula:

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

Weight:

Height:

meters

Age:

years (2-19)

Gender:

BMI Result:

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1. What is BMI for Children?

BMI (Body Mass Index) for children and teens is a special calculation that accounts for normal differences in body fat between boys and girls and differences in body fat at various ages. It's calculated the same way as adult BMI but interpreted differently.

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: The result is compared to CDC growth charts to determine the BMI percentile for 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's used to track growth patterns over time.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, age in years (2-19), and select gender. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0, age 2-19).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is BMI interpreted differently for children?
A: Children's body composition varies by age and sex, so BMI must be compared to growth charts specific to their demographic.

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

Q3: When should BMI be measured in children?
A: The AAP recommends annual BMI screening starting at age 2.

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

Q5: What should I do with my child's BMI result?
A: Consult a healthcare provider for interpretation and potential next steps based on the percentile.