1. What is BMI Percentile for Children?

BMI percentile is the comparison of a child's BMI to children of the same age and gender. The CDC growth charts are used to determine how a child's BMI compares to others in the same demographic group.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Then compares the result to CDC growth charts based on:

• Age (2-20 years)
• Gender
• Calculated BMI value

Explanation: Unlike adults, children's BMI must be interpreted relative to others of the same age and sex because their body composition changes as they grow.

3. Importance of BMI Percentile

Details: BMI percentile helps identify children who are underweight, healthy weight, overweight, or obese. It's a screening tool that may indicate the need for further assessment.

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 percentile).

Q2: Why use percentiles instead of fixed BMI values?
A: Children's body composition changes with age, so fixed cutoffs aren't appropriate like they are for adults.

Q3: How often should children's BMI be checked?
A: The AAP recommends BMI screening annually from age 2.

Q4: 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.

Q5: Where can I find the official CDC growth charts?
A: The CDC provides growth charts at https://www.cdc.gov/growthcharts/