1. What is BMI for Children and Teens?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a screening tool for weight categories in children and teens aged 2-20 years. For children, BMI is age- and sex-specific and is often referred to as BMI-for-age.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The result is compared to CDC growth charts to determine the weight status percentile for girls of the same age.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: Tracking BMI-for-age helps identify potential weight problems in children. However, it's a screening tool and not a diagnostic of body fatness or health.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kg, height in meters, and age in years (2-20). For accurate results, measure height without shoes and weight with minimal clothing.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is BMI interpreted differently for children than adults?
A: Children's body composition varies as they grow, so BMI must be compared against growth charts specific to 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 accurate for athletic children?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in muscular children. Additional assessments may be needed.

Q4: How often should BMI be checked in children?
A: The AAP recommends annual BMI screening for children aged 2 years and older.

Q5: What if my child's BMI is high?
A: Consult a healthcare provider who can perform additional assessments and consider growth patterns.