If an adolescent's BMI-for-age percentile is 92, which statement best describes their overweight risk?

If an adolescent's BMI-for-age percentile is 92, which statement best describes their overweight risk?

• A. They are at risk for overweight
• B. They are underweight
• C. They are within the normal range
• D. They are severely overweight

Answer: (A)

In pediatric growth charts, BMI-for-age percentiles categorize weight status by age and sex. A percentile of 92 means this adolescent’s BMI is higher than 92% of peers, placing them in the overweight risk category. The usual breakdown is that 85th–94th percentile corresponds to being at risk for overweight, while 95th percentile and above is labeled overweight/obese. So a 92nd percentile fits the description of being at risk for overweight. It’s not underweight or normal, and it isn’t severely overweight, which would be in the higher percentile ranges.

In pediatric growth charts, BMI-for-age percentiles categorize weight status by age and sex. A percentile of 92 means this adolescent’s BMI is higher than 92% of peers, placing them in the overweight risk category. The usual breakdown is that 85th–94th percentile corresponds to being at risk for overweight, while 95th percentile and above is labeled overweight/obese. So a 92nd percentile fits the description of being at risk for overweight. It’s not underweight or normal, and it isn’t severely overweight, which would be in the higher percentile ranges.