1. What is BMI Percentile?

BMI percentile is a measure that compares a child's BMI to other children of the same age and gender. It helps determine if a child is underweight, healthy weight, overweight, or obese.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Then compares the result to CDC growth charts to determine the percentile for the child's age and gender.

3. Importance of BMI Percentile

Details: BMI percentile is the preferred measure for assessing weight status in children and teens because it accounts for 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, and exact age in years. For most accurate results, measurements should be taken by a healthcare professional.

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

Q3: What age range is this calculator for?
A: Typically 2-20 years. BMI is not a good indicator of body fat for children under 2.

Q4: How often should children's BMI be checked?
A: The AAP recommends annual BMI screening starting at age 2.

Q5: Are there limitations to BMI percentile?
A: It doesn't distinguish between fat and muscle mass, and may be less accurate for very muscular children or those with certain medical conditions.