At what BMI percentile is a child categorized as underweight?

A child is categorized as underweight when their Body Mass Index (BMI) falls below the 5th percentile for their age and sex according to growth charts. This means that compared to a reference population of children, those in the underweight category weigh less than 5% of their peers.

Being in this category may indicate potential health risks that could arise from inadequate nutrition or other underlying health issues. Monitoring a child's growth and BMI is crucial for early intervention, ensuring that any necessary support is provided to improve their nutritional status and overall health.

The normal weight range is defined as between the 5th and 84th percentiles, while being classified as overweight or at risk of overweight occurs from the 85th percentile onwards. Hence, the understanding of BMI percentiles is vital for effective assessment and intervention in pediatric health.