BMI is important for kids, too

For children, having too much or too little body fat can lead to various diseases and health risks. Ask about your child's BMI percentile at their next doctor's appointment. If your child is overweight or obese, look into the FitKids360 program through Health Net of West Michigan. This free program is run by local health experts to provide basic education about nutrition, behavior and exercise. Visit healthnetwm.org/programs/fitkids360 to learn more.

Lead poisoning

Testing for lead poisoning is important since kids with lead poisoning may not look or act sick. Only a simple blood test can tell for sure. You can get a $10 prepaid Visa^® card just for having a free lead poisoning test. Simply schedule the test with your child's doctor and go to the appointment before your child’s second birthday, and we’ll mail you a $10 prepaid Visa^® gift card.

If your home was built before 1978, your family could be at risk for lead exposure. Go to Michigan.gov/leadsafe or call toll-free at 866.691.5323 to ask about low to no cost lead inspections and removal.

Asthma

Asthma is one of the top reasons for emergency room visits at many local hospitals - but there are ways to get asthma under control. If you or your child has asthma, ask your doctor for an asthma action plan and learn how to avoid your triggers. To control asthma, take long-term medicines even when your asthma isn't acting up. Take quick-relief medicines only when needed. A case manager can help you manage your care.

Boys & 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. It also helps prevent the spread of the disease. Ask your child’s doctor about getting the HPV vaccine for your child

Well-child visits

Keep your kids healthy by scheduling regular well-child visits with their doctor. Well-child visits are a way for your child's doctor to see them before health issues start so they can stay healthy. At well-child visits, your doctor can:

• Give a lead poisoning test and vaccines
• Measure your child's height, weight and body mass index (BMI)
• Find health and learning problems early

How often should your child have a well-child visit? See the recommended schedule below:

• Newborn to 15 months: Six visits 
• Ages 3-6 years: Once a year
• Ages 7-10: Every two years
• Ages 11-18: Once a year

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