Overweight for a 15-year-old is defined as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than or equal to 23.29, but less than 29.11. A BMI of 29.11 or greater is considered obese.
Understanding BMI for Adolescents
It's important to note that BMI interpretation differs for children and adolescents compared to adults. Instead of fixed BMI cutoffs, a child's BMI is compared to the BMIs of other children of the same age and sex. This comparison results in a percentile. Overweight is defined using these percentile ranges. However, the reference provided gives specific BMI cut-offs for a 15-year-old.
BMI Cut-Offs for a 15 Year Old
According to the reference, here's a breakdown:
| Category | BMI Range |
|---|---|
| Underweight | BMI < Age- and sex-specific 5th percentile (not provided in reference) |
| Healthy Weight | Age- and sex-specific 5th percentile <= BMI < Age- and sex-specific 85th percentile (not provided in reference) |
| Overweight | 23.29 <= BMI < 29.11 |
| Obese | BMI >= 29.11 |
Important Considerations
- Age and Sex: The definition of overweight uses age- and sex-specific BMI thresholds, reflecting different growth patterns in boys and girls.
- Professional Consultation: BMI is a screening tool, not a diagnostic one. A healthcare professional should evaluate the overall health status and growth pattern to determine the appropriate course of action if a child is considered overweight.
