1. What is BMI Percentile?

BMI percentile is the comparison of a child's BMI with children of the same age and gender. The CDC growth charts are used to determine the percentile which helps assess whether a child has a healthy weight.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Then compares the result with CDC growth charts for children of the same age and gender to determine the percentile.

3. Importance of BMI Percentile

Details: BMI percentile is the preferred measure of weight status for children and teens because it takes into account normal differences in body fat between boys and girls and differences in body fat at various ages.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, age in years (between 2-19), and select gender. For accurate results, measurements should be taken with proper equipment.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What do the percentile ranges mean?
A: Underweight (<5th), Healthy weight (5th-85th), Overweight (85th-95th), Obese (≥95th).

Q2: Why use percentiles for children instead of BMI categories?
A: Children's body fat changes with age and differs between boys and girls, so percentiles provide a more accurate assessment.

Q3: How often should my child's BMI be calculated?
A: The AAP recommends BMI calculation at least annually as part of routine health supervision.

Q4: What if my child's BMI percentile changes significantly?
A: Consult your pediatrician. Rapid changes may indicate health or growth issues.

Q5: Are there limitations to BMI percentile?
A: It doesn't distinguish between fat and muscle mass. Athletic children may have high BMI due to muscle rather than fat.