1. What is BMI for Children?

BMI (Body Mass Index) for children and teens is age- and sex-specific and is often referred to as BMI-for-age. Unlike adults, children's body composition varies as they age and between boys and girls, so their BMI needs to be compared against growth charts specific to their age and gender.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula adjusted for children:

Where:

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

Explanation: The result is then compared to growth charts to determine the percentile for the child's 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 kg, height in meters, age in years (2-18), and select gender. For accurate results, measurements should be taken with minimal clothing and no shoes.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How is child BMI different from adult BMI?
A: Child BMI is interpreted relative to other children of the same age and sex, using percentile growth charts rather than fixed categories.

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

Q3: When should I be concerned about my child's BMI?
A: Consult a healthcare provider if your child is below the 5th percentile or above the 85th percentile.

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: How often should BMI be checked in children?
A: Annual BMI checks are recommended as part of routine health supervision visits.