Growth Assessment for 13-Year-Old Boy
Percentile Classification
This 13-year-old boy with a weight of 113.54 kg and height of 169.7 cm falls well above the 98th percentile for weight (indicating severe obesity) and approximately at the 75th-90th percentile for height according to UK WHO growth charts. 1
Weight Assessment
- The weight of 113.54 kg places this child far above the 98th percentile (>97.7th percentile), which is more than 2 standard deviations above the median for his age. 1
- This weight classification indicates severe obesity requiring immediate clinical evaluation and intervention, as values above the 98th percentile are used to identify children whose growth patterns may indicate adverse health conditions. 1
- For context, typical weight at the 50th percentile for a 13-year-old boy would be approximately 45-50 kg, making this child more than double the median weight. 2
Height Assessment
- The height of 169.7 cm places this child between the 75th and 90th percentiles, indicating above-average stature for age. 1, 2
- This height is within normal range and does not raise concerns for growth abnormalities. 1
- The height measurement should be plotted on CDC growth charts, which are recommended for children aged 24 months and older. 3, 1
Body Mass Index Calculation
- BMI = 113.54 kg ÷ (1.697 m)² = 39.4 kg/m², which is severely elevated and indicates Class 2-3 obesity. 2
- This BMI is far above the 98th percentile for age and represents a critical health concern requiring urgent intervention. 1
Clinical Implications and Urgent Actions
- Immediate comprehensive medical evaluation is warranted to assess for obesity-related comorbidities including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, sleep apnea, and fatty liver disease. 1
- Screen for endocrine disorders that may contribute to excessive weight gain, including hypothyroidism and Cushing syndrome. 1
- Evaluate for metabolic syndrome components given the severe degree of obesity. 1
- Assess dietary patterns, physical activity levels, screen time, and family eating behaviors to identify modifiable risk factors. 1
- Consider psychosocial evaluation, as severe obesity in adolescence is associated with depression, anxiety, and social isolation affecting quality of life. 1
Growth Monitoring Strategy
- Serial measurements every 3-6 months are essential to track weight trajectory and response to interventions, as growth velocity provides more valuable information than single measurements. 1, 2
- Plot all measurements on appropriate CDC growth charts to visualize trends over time. 3, 1
- Evaluate family growth patterns and parental heights/weights to assess genetic contribution versus environmental factors. 1, 2