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. The CDC growth charts are used to determine how a child's BMI compares to the reference population.

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 (male/female)
• Calculated BMI value

3. Importance of BMI Percentile

Details: BMI percentile helps identify children who are underweight, healthy weight, overweight, or obese. It's a better indicator than BMI alone for growing children.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kg, height in meters, age in years (2-20), and select gender. For accurate results, measurements should be taken with proper technique.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use percentiles for children instead of BMI categories?
A: Children's body composition changes as they grow, so percentiles account for normal growth patterns.

Q2: What do the percentile ranges mean?
A: Underweight (<5th), Healthy weight (5th-85th), Overweight (85th-95th), Obese (≥95th).

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

Q4: Are there limitations to BMI percentile?
A: It doesn't distinguish between fat and muscle mass. Additional assessments may be needed.

Q5: Where can I find the official CDC growth charts?
A: On the CDC website (www.cdc.gov/growthcharts/).