Improving
Reporting Efficiency, Individual Assessments and Research Capabilities
Home Growth
Chart Software Growth1
Features User
Guide Partners Contact
Us Orgs
|
|
Information provided in this web site is for informational purposes only and it is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. ICU-Soft does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, products, procedures, opinions, physicians, or clinics.
About BMI
Body Mass Index or BMI is used as an initial tool in a series of examinations required to determine if a child is overweight. BMI is described as an anthropometric index of weight and height that is defined as body weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared. The U.S. Standard unit calculation is body weight in pounds divided by height in inches squared x 703.
BMI Percentile
BMI percentile is the number that corresponds to a series of curves on a grid using the BMI calculation and the child's age as X and Y factors. BMI percentiles are gender and age specific for ages 2 to 20. For more information about CDC Growth Charts and BMI, go to http://www.cdc.gov/growthcharts/
At Risk and Overweight
Children who have a BMI at or above the 95th percentile for their age and gender are considered 'overweight'. Children with a BMI that falls between the 85th and 95th percentile are classified as 'at risk' for overweight. It is generally recommended that children who fall in the at risk or overweight category should discuss whether a structured nutrition, weight control or physical activity program is warranted with their pediatrician or family physician.
Potential Health Consequences of Overweight
Short term and long term effects of childhood overweight are of concern because of the health consequences. Further, overweight children are more likely to be obese as adults, increasing risk for a number of other diseases as they get older. Below are some of the most common childhood overweight health concerns:
© Copyright 2005-2007, ICU-Soft, LLC