The Range and Direction of Changes in the Classification of the Body Mass Index in Children Measured Between the Ages of 6 and 10 in Gdansk, Poland (Longitudinal Studies)

TL;DR

This study tracks how children's BMI classifications change from age 6 to 10 in Gdansk, Poland, finding that most remain stable while some shift categories.

Contribution

The study reveals sex-specific trends in BMI classification changes and emphasizes the need for targeted health strategies.

Findings

76.51% of children retained their BMI classification from age 6 to 10.

Boys were more likely to move to a higher BMI category, while girls shifted to a lower one.

Strong correlations were found between somatic features and BMI at both ages.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Body Mass Index (BMI) is a widely used indicator of children’s nutritional status and helps identify risks of being underweight and overweight during development. Understanding how BMI classifications evolve over time is crucial for early intervention and public health planning. This study aimed to determine the scope and direction of changes in BMI classification among children between the ages of 6 and 10. Methods: This longitudinal study included 1026 children (497 boys and 529 girls) from Gdansk, Poland. Standardized anthropometric measurements were collected at ages 6 and 10. BMI was calculated and classified using international reference systems (IOTF and OLAF). BMI classification changes were analyzed using rank transformations and Pearson correlation coefficients (p < 0.05) to explore relationships between body measurements. Results: Most children (76.51%) retained their BMI classifications over the four-year period. However, 23.49% experienced changes, with boys more often moving to a higher BMI category (15.29%) and girls more frequently shifting to a lower category (14.03%). The prevalence of children classified as living with obesity declined between ages 6 and 10, while both overweight and underweight classifications slightly increased. Strong correlations were observed between somatic features and BMI at both ages. Conclusions: The stability of BMI classification over time underscores the importance of early identification and sustained monitoring of nutritional status. The sex-specific patterns observed highlight the importance of targeted health promotion strategies. In this context, incorporating dietary interventions—such as promoting balanced meals and reducing unhealthy food intake—could play a significant role in maintaining healthy BMI trajectories and preventing both obesity and undernutrition during childhood.