Understanding Child BMI Percentiles
Body Mass Index (BMI) for children and teens is different from adults. Because children's body fat changes as they grow and differs between boys and girls, BMI levels are expressed relative to other children of the same age and sex.
Weight Status Categories
- Underweight: Less than the 5th percentile
- Healthy Weight: 5th percentile to less than the 85th percentile
- Overweight: 85th percentile to less than the 95th percentile
- Obesity: Equal to or greater than the 95th percentile
Why is BMI useful?
BMI is an inexpensive and easy screening method for weight category—underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity. Research shows that BMI levels correlate with body fatness for children and adolescents. BMI levels also correlate with screening results for metabolic and cardiovascular disease risk factors.
Limitations
Please remember that this is a screening tool. It does not measure body fat directly. If you have concerns about your child's growth or weight, please consult your pediatrician or family physician for a reliable medical assessment.