1. What is BMI for Teenage Girls?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to teenage girls. For adolescents, BMI is age- and sex-specific and is often referred to as BMI-for-age. The normal range is between the 5th and 85th percentiles.

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 percentile range for girls aged 13-19 years.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: Tracking BMI during adolescence helps identify potential weight problems early. The teenage years are critical for establishing healthy growth patterns and preventing obesity-related health issues later in life.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, and age between 13-19 years. For accurate results, measure height without shoes and weight with minimal clothing.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered a normal BMI for teenage girls?
A: For girls aged 13-19, BMI between the 5th and 85th percentiles is considered normal weight.

Q2: Why use age-specific percentiles for teens?
A: Because body composition changes significantly during puberty, age- and sex-specific percentiles provide more accurate assessments than adult BMI categories.

Q3: How often should BMI be checked in teenagers?
A: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends BMI screening annually for all children and adolescents.

Q4: Are there limitations to BMI for teens?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between fat and muscle mass. Athletic teens with high muscle mass may have high BMI without excess fat.

Q5: What should I do if my teen is outside the normal range?
A: Consult with a pediatrician or healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized advice.