Which BMI percentile range indicates overweight in children?

Which BMI percentile range indicates overweight in children?

• A. 5th to 15th percentile
• B. 50th percentile
• C. 85th to 94th percentile
• D. ≥95th percentile

Answer: (C)

In children, BMI is interpreted using age- and sex-specific percentiles on growth charts, because kids grow at different rates and development affects weight norms. Overweight is defined as a BMI that falls between the 85th and 94th percentile for age and sex, with obesity defined as a BMI at or above the 95th percentile. This range sits above the typical healthy range but below the obesity threshold, signaling a weight status that may warrant closer monitoring and lifestyle guidance. The other ranges correspond to underweight (low percentiles), average/healthy weight (around the 50th percentile), or obesity (at or above the 95th percentile).

In children, BMI is interpreted using age- and sex-specific percentiles on growth charts, because kids grow at different rates and development affects weight norms. Overweight is defined as a BMI that falls between the 85th and 94th percentile for age and sex, with obesity defined as a BMI at or above the 95th percentile. This range sits above the typical healthy range but below the obesity threshold, signaling a weight status that may warrant closer monitoring and lifestyle guidance. The other ranges correspond to underweight (low percentiles), average/healthy weight (around the 50th percentile), or obesity (at or above the 95th percentile).