1. What is Pediatric BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) for children is calculated the same way as for adults, but the interpretation is different. Children's BMI is compared to growth charts to determine a percentile ranking based on age and sex.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Body weight in kilograms
• \( height \) — Height in meters

Explanation: For children, the BMI value is then plotted on CDC growth charts to determine the percentile for age and sex.

3. Importance of Pediatric BMI

Details: Pediatric BMI is a screening tool that can indicate whether a child is underweight, healthy weight, overweight, or obese. Tracking BMI over time can show growth patterns.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, age in years (2-20), and select gender. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0, age between 2-20).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is pediatric BMI different from adult BMI?
A: Children's body composition changes as they grow, so BMI must be interpreted relative to other children of the same age and sex.

Q2: What are the BMI percentile categories?
A: Underweight (<5th), Healthy weight (5th-85th), Overweight (85th-95th), Obese (≥95th percentile).

Q3: When should BMI be measured in children?
A: The AAP recommends BMI screening annually from age 2, and at all well-child visits.

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

Q5: What if my child's BMI is high?
A: Consult your pediatrician. They may assess other factors like growth pattern, diet, activity level, and family history.