1. What is BMI for Children?

BMI (Body Mass Index) for children is a measure that adjusts for age and gender, comparing a child's weight to their height. Unlike adults, children's BMI is interpreted using age- and sex-specific percentiles.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula adjusted for Philippine pediatric percentiles:

Where:

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

Explanation: The result is compared to growth charts specific to Filipino children to determine the percentile.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: Tracking BMI percentiles helps identify underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity in children, allowing for early intervention when needed.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kg, height in meters, age in years (2-18), and gender. Measurements should be as accurate as possible for correct percentile classification.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use percentiles instead of fixed values?
A: Children's body composition changes with age and differs by gender, so percentiles account for normal growth patterns.

Q2: What are the percentile categories?
A: Below 5th (underweight), 5th-85th (healthy weight), 85th-95th (overweight), above 95th (obese).

Q3: How often should children's BMI be checked?
A: Annually for most children, more frequently if weight concerns exist or during puberty.

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

Q5: Where can I find official Philippine growth charts?
A: The Philippine Pediatric Society provides official growth references for Filipino children.