1. What is BMI for Children and Teens?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a screening tool for overweight and obesity in children and teens aged 2-19 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 against CDC growth charts to determine the BMI percentile for age and sex.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI-for-age is the recommended screening measure for overweight and obesity in children and teens. It helps identify potential weight problems that may lead to health issues.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, age in years (2-19), and select gender. For accurate results, measurements should be taken with minimal clothing and no shoes.

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 age- and sex-specific standards.

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

Q3: Is BMI accurate for all children?
A: BMI is a screening tool, not a diagnostic. Athletic children may have high BMI due to muscle, not fat.

Q4: How often should BMI be checked in children?
A: The AAP recommends BMI screening annually from age 2.

Q5: What if my child's BMI is high?
A: Consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and personalized advice.