Calculadora de IMC para Adolescentes
- Created by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
- Reviewed by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
Last updated: Apr 18, 2026
Formula
IMC = peso / altura²
About this calculator
The BMI Calculator for Adolescents calculates the raw Body Mass Index (BMI) for young people aged 10 to 19. The result shows the numerical BMI, but correct interpretation requires comparison with WHO percentile curves for age and sex. Unlike adult BMI, which uses fixed ranges, adolescent BMI varies with growth.
The calculation uses the standard formula: BMI = weight (kg) / height² (m). For example, a 14-year-old weighing 55 kg and 1.65 m tall has BMI = 55 / (1.65²) = 20.2. This value alone does not indicate underweight or overweight. It is necessary to consult WHO percentile tables: below the 5th percentile indicates underweight, between 5th and 85th is normal, 85th to 95th indicates overweight, and above 95th indicates obesity.
Use this calculator for growth monitoring during pediatric check-ups, at home, or at school. It is useful for parents, teachers, and health professionals to track weight changes relative to height during puberty. The result should be recorded over time to see the trend, not just a single point.
Important cautions: BMI does not directly measure body fat; athletes with high muscle mass may have elevated BMI without excess fat. Also, percentile interpretation is specific to age and sex, so always use the correct curves. Do not use adult BMI ranges for adolescents, as this leads to classification errors.
Frequently asked questions
What does the BMI percentile mean for adolescents?
The percentile shows how the adolescent's BMI compares to others of the same age and sex. For example, the 70th percentile means 70% of youth have a lower BMI. WHO classifies: below 5th percentile is underweight, 5th to 85th normal, 85th to 95th overweight, and above 95th obese.
Can I use the adult BMI calculator for my teenage child?
No. Adults use fixed ranges (e.g., 18.5 to 24.9), but adolescents need percentiles by age and sex because BMI changes with growth. Using the adult table can misclassify a healthy adolescent as underweight or overweight.
My child plays sports and has a high BMI. Should I worry?
High BMI can be due to muscle mass, not fat. Young athletes may have a BMI above the 95th percentile without excess fat. Evaluate with a health professional who can measure body composition (skinfolds, bioimpedance) to confirm.
How often should I calculate my adolescent's BMI?
It is recommended every 6 months or annually, tracking the growth curve. A single measurement does not show a trend. The important thing is to see if the percentile remains stable or if there are sudden changes.
Does this calculator work for adolescents under 10?
No, this calculator is specific for ages 10 to 19. For younger children, use the child BMI calculator, which also uses WHO percentiles but with different age ranges.