What is BMI?
In children and teens, Body Mass Index (BMI) is a screening tool used to help determine underweight, overweight and risk for overweight.

Children's body fat changes as they grow. Girls and boys have different body fat. This is why BMI for children, also referred to as BMI-for-age, is based on gender and age.

BMI-for-age is plotted on separate growth charts for girls and boys ages 2-20. Refer to the growth charts here to see how your child compares to children his or her age or visit www.cdc.gov/growthcharts for more information.

BMI should not be used as the only tool to determine overweight and obesity in children. Physically active children may have a higher BMI due to having more muscle, which weighs more than fat. If you have concerns that your child may be overweight, consult with your doctor.

Why is OVERWEIGHT a problem?
Overweight children weigh more than most other children of the same age and height. Overweight children usually have too much body fat. Some fat is helpful for the body. Too much fat can be harmful.

It may be harder for overweight children to join in physical activities. They may not feel comfortable if they cannot do the things other children can do. Overweight children may feel they don't "fit in." Overweight children are more likely to grow up to be overweight adults. Overweight adults are more likely to develop health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease and some forms of cancer and diabetes.

Calculating BMI
BMI = (Weight in pounds) / (Height in inches x Height in inches) x 703

How to read the BMI-for-age charts
Locate your child's age and BMI on the graph. The curved line represents examples of percentiles that correspond to BMI-for-age. For example, if your child's BMI is in the 90th percentile, this means that compared to children of the same gender and age, 90% have a lower BMI-for-age.

BMI decreases during the preschool years, then increases into adulthood. The percentile curves show this pattern of growth.

• If BMI-for-age is greater than or equal to the 95th percentile, the child may be overweight.
• If BMI-for-age is between the 85th percentile and the 95th percentile, the child may be at risk for overweight.
• If BMI-for-age is between the 5th percentile and the 85th percentile, the child is in acceptable healthy range.
• If BMI-for-age is less than the 5th percentile, the child may be underweight.

Weight Management Programs
If your child is struggling with maintaining a healthy weight, Lancaster General can help with Shapedown, a weight management program for children ages 5 to 17. Age-appropriate classes led by a dietitian, nurse and exercise physiologist are held throughout the year. Call (717) 544-3145 to register.

Lancaster General also offers comprehensive programs to help adults maintain a healthy weight. Call (717) 544-3138 for more information. Visit www.LancasterGeneralHealth.org/Wellness for additional weight management and health resources.

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