You may have heard about the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine and the importance of getting your body mass index, but knowing these additional details will help make sure you are aware of the care you and your family may need to stay healthy.

Boys and HPV

Many people know girls are affected by HPV (human papillomavirus), but boys are also affected. The HPV vaccine is recommended for boys ages 11-12 for protection against certain cancers caused by HPV in males, and to help prevent the spread of the disease.

Ask your child’s doctor about getting the HPV vaccine for your child.

Know your BMI

Your body mass index (BMI) tells you how much body fat you have. It is a quick and painless way of screening for potential health problems. A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is healthy for adults. If your BMI is 25 or over, you’re at risk for diabetes, high blood pressure and more.

For children, having too much or too little body fat can also lead to various diseases and health risks.

Ask about your child’s BMI percentile at their next doctor’s appointment.

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