Bucks Co. mom using son's BMI test to spread message about body image

CHALFONT, Pa. (WPVI) -- As part of yearly health screenings, the state of Pennsylvania performs standard health tests for students including Body Mass Index, or BMI.

Now, a Bucks County mom is spreading an important message regarding BMI and body image in kids and young adults.

Angelisa DiPalma from Chalfont recently posted pictures of her son Peter on Facebook.

And based on what you see - would you think he's considered overweight?

At 5'9" and 159 pounds, Peter's BMI is 23.5 and he's deemed "at risk for overweight."

Angelisa says it's a good thing her athletic 14-year-old has a strong sense of self and confidence.

She writes: "My son completely understands the test is bogus. It's the young teenage girls' understanding or misunderstanding that worries me."

She says muscle weighs more than fat, but that isn't always reflected accurately in a BMI breakdown.

Angelisa says she posted the photos to spread awareness and let people know it's not about a number on the scale - it's about health and fitness and wellness.

She hopes the schools are listening, especially since many weigh students out in the open, which can be traumatizing.

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