1. What is Pediatric BMI Percentile?

The CDC BMI-for-age growth charts are the most commonly used indicator to measure the size and growth patterns of children and teens in the United States. BMI percentile shows how a child's measurements compare with others the same gender and age.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Then compares the result to CDC growth charts to determine the percentile based on the child's age and gender.

3. Importance of BMI Percentile

Details: For children and teens, BMI is age- and sex-specific and is often referred to as BMI-for-age. The percentile indicates the relative position of the child's BMI among children of the same sex and age.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, age in years (2-19), and select gender. For accurate results, use precise measurements.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use percentiles for children instead of BMI categories?
A: Because children's body composition varies as they grow, percentiles account for normal differences in 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 measured?
A: The AAP recommends BMI screening annually for all children and adolescents.

Q4: Are there limitations to BMI measurements?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between fat and muscle mass. Additional assessments may be needed for very muscular children.

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