BMI stands for Body Mass Index. BMI is a number that shows a person’s body weight adjusted for his or her height. A person’s BMI can be calculated with simple math using inches and pounds.

Why is BMI important?
For children and teens, BMI is used by health professionals to measure rate of growth and to assess if a child is underweight, overweight, or at the risk of becoming overweight. Children's body types are different than adults because they are still growing. The body fat in boys and girls even differ as they mature. This is why BMI for children is both age and gender specific.

How does BMI relate to overall health?
BMI is just one of many factors related to developing a chronic disease such as heart disease, diabetes, or some kinds of cancers. The more overweight a person is, the greater his or her risk will be for developing health problems later in life.

(Click here to calculate your child’s BMI)

Again, it is important to note that BMI is only ONE of many factors that can be used to predict these health risks. Two people can have the same BMI but a different percentage of fat. Other factors include a person’s diet, physical activity level and family history.

Talk with your child’s pediatrician if you have real concerns about his or her weight and what changes you may need to make to help your child live a happier, healthier life!

For more info contact: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30333.
Tel: (404) 639-3311/Public Inquiries: (404) 639-3534/(800) 311-3435 Department of Health and Human Services