Calls Grow for Health NZ to Stop Using BMI in B4 School Checks
Published
Eating disorder organisations in New Zealand are asking Health NZ to stop using Body Mass Index (BMI) during the B4 School checks carried out by Plunket. The B4 School check is a health assessment for children before they start primary school. It includes measuring height and weight to calculate BMI, a number based on a person's weight compared with their height.
The organisations say that measuring children's BMI can cause harm. They argue that discussing body size with young children, even in a medical setting, can affect how they feel about their bodies and may increase the risk of eating disorders later in life. Some groups have described the practice as 'horrendous', saying it is not suitable for such young children.
Health NZ has not yet announced whether it will change the way B4 School checks are done. Supporters of the current system say BMI is a simple and widely used tool that helps health professionals find children who may need extra support with their nutrition or growth. The debate is likely to continue as health experts consider how best to protect children's wellbeing while still monitoring their health.
For parents, the issue raises a practical question about what information they are given after their child's check and how body size is discussed. Anyone with concerns about eating disorders or body image can contact their family doctor, Plunket nurse, or a specialist support service for advice.
Sources: NZ Herald
More New Zealand news
- Tesla's Full Self-Driving (Supervised) System Draws Attention at New Zealand Expo
- Migrant Millionaire Says 'We Give Back' and Challenges Common Myths
- Effect Acquires Born Digital to Expand in New Zealand
- Luxon Heads to China for APEC Summit as New Zealand Awaits Final Election Count
- Is Political Neutrality Still Expected in New Zealand?
- Luxon to Attend APEC Under Caretaker Government Rules
- Wānaka's $300 Million Health Precinct Project Goes on Sale
- Microsoft Outlook and Teams Suffer Major Global Outage