# What is the difference between being overweight and obese in children, and how is it assessed? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-alfrq-byn-zyadt-alwzn-walsmnh-and-alatfal-wkyf-ytm-tqyymha Language: en Category: pediatrics Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:52.497Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:52.497Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/ma-alfrq-byn-zyadt-alwzn-walsmnh-and-alatfal-wkyf-ytm-tqyymha Overweight and obesity are two distinct conditions, although both indicate that a child's weight is higher than what is considered healthy for their height. The main difference lies in the extent to which this weight exceeds healthy norms. Obesity is defined as having an excessive amount of body fat, whereas being overweight means a person's weight is higher than what is considered healthy for their height, but they do not necessarily have an excessive amount of fat as in the case of obesity [\[3\]](). For children, it is important to note that they gain weight as they grow and develop, so it may not always be easy to determine if your child is overweight. In some cases, extra weight may disappear as the child grows taller, but some children who continue to gain too much weight over time may become obese. Obesity is a disease that increases the risk of developing many health problems [\[1\]](). ## How is a child's weight assessed? To assess whether your child's weight is healthy, the Body Mass Index (BMI) is used, which is a measure based on a person's height and weight. Subsequently, your child's BMI is compared to the BMI of other children of the same age and sex, based on growth charts issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This provides your child's "BMI-for-age percentile," a number that can tell you if your child is underweight, at a healthy weight, overweight, or obese [\[1\]](). - **Underweight:** Less than the 5th percentile. - **Healthy weight:** From the 5th percentile to less than the 85th percentile. - **Overweight:** From the 85th percentile to less than the 95th percentile. - **Obesity:** 95th percentile or higher [\[2\]](). It is important to discuss BMI results with your child's healthcare provider, as BMI can be linked to overall health and well-being [\[2\]](). ## When should you consult a doctor? If you are concerned about your child's weight, it is essential to talk to a healthcare professional. In many cases, children who are overweight do not need to lose weight, but rather need to gain weight more slowly as they continue to grow in height. To determine if your child weighs too much or is gaining weight too quickly, a healthcare professional will consider several factors, such as your child's age, weight, height, BMI-for-age percentile, general health, growth velocity, whether your child has any weight-related health problems such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, and a family history of obesity and related health problems [\[1\]](). ## Risks of childhood obesity Being overweight or obese can increase your child's chances of developing health problems such as breathing difficulties, joint pain, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and type 2 diabetes. Some children who are overweight or obese may also experience teasing or bullying related to their weight, which can affect their mental health. Children who are overweight or obese may be more prone to mental health problems, including low self-esteem, depression, and eating disorders [\[1\]](). ## Practical steps to support a child's health You can help your child reach and maintain a healthy weight by adopting healthy lifestyle habits together. This includes following a healthy eating plan, regular physical activity, limiting screen time, and getting enough sleep [\[1\]](). For more information on how to develop a comprehensive family plan, you can visit [Childhood Obesity: Growth Curve Assessment, Family Plan, and the Role of Nutrition and Activity (Arabic)](). It is important to be a good role model for your child in these healthy habits. Children learn well and often imitate what they see. Make healthy choices available and easily accessible at home, and encourage all family members to participate in building healthy habits regarding eating, drinking, physical activity, and sleep, so your child does not feel singled out [\[1\]](). ## Medical references - [Helping Your Child Who Is Overweight]() - [Obesity in Children]() - [Child and Teen BMI Calculator]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-alfrq-byn-zyadt-alwzn-walsmnh-and-alatfal-wkyf-ytm-tqyymha#answer