Which statement correctly defines overweight and obesity BMI percentiles in children?

Which statement correctly defines overweight and obesity BMI percentiles in children?

• A. Overweight: 5th-15th percentile; Obesity: 15th-35th percentile
• B. Overweight: 85th-94th percentile; Obesity: ≥95th percentile
• C. Overweight: 50th-75th percentile; Obesity: 75th-90th percentile
• D. Overweight: ≥95th percentile; Obesity: ≥99th percentile

Answer: (B)

In children, BMI is interpreted using age- and sex-specific percentiles. Overweight is defined as a BMI between the 85th and just under the 95th percentile, while obesity is defined as a BMI at or above the 95th percentile. This cutoff correctly separates kids who are heavier than most peers from those with the highest BMI for their age and sex. The statement that overweight is 85th–94th percentile and obesity is ≥95th percentile matches this definition. Other options mix up the ranges, placing overweight or obesity at inappropriate percentiles for pediatric practice.

In children, BMI is interpreted using age- and sex-specific percentiles. Overweight is defined as a BMI between the 85th and just under the 95th percentile, while obesity is defined as a BMI at or above the 95th percentile. This cutoff correctly separates kids who are heavier than most peers from those with the highest BMI for their age and sex. The statement that overweight is 85th–94th percentile and obesity is ≥95th percentile matches this definition. Other options mix up the ranges, placing overweight or obesity at inappropriate percentiles for pediatric practice.