Jayme Cilente

SLM 521

Summer 2006

Body Mass Index

http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/bmi/childrens_BMI/about_childrens_BMI.htm

Body mass index, or BMI, is a new term to most people. However, it is the measurement of choice for many physicians and researchers studying obesity. BMI uses a mathematical formula that takes into accounts both a person's height and weight. BMI equals a person's weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared. (BMI=kg/m²). In this unit you will learn about BMI in youth and be able to determine your own BMI.

Visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s website about BMI for children and teens by clicking on the picture above.

Complete the following activities:

1. Make a chart that includes the weight status categories and percentile ranges for BMI in children and teens.
2. What are the differences between BMI for children and teens and adults?
3. Determine your BMI by using the BMI Calculator.
4. Using the chart you made earlier, determine your weight status category and percentile range.
5. Compare the result you got by the BMI Calculator to the BMI in the following table:

http://www.pediatrics.about.com/.../ n_bmi_tables.htm