Obesity
Definition
Obesity is defined by the CDC as “a BMI at or above the 95th percentile for children and teens of the same age and sex.”*
Tips For Documentation
Include cause, i.e. excess calories, drug-induced obesity
If obesity is drug-induced, list the specific drug(s)
Detail Body Mass Index (BMI) & weight for age percentile
Include a reference to nutrition notes
Include a sentence to specify how obesity adversely contributes to patient’s health condition
Terminology for children ages 2-19 years
| BMI Category | Former Terminology | Recommended Terminology | ICD-10-CM code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 85th - 94th %ile | At risk for overweight | Overweight | |
| ≥ 95th %ile | Overweight or Obesity | Obesity | Z68.54 |
| ≥ 120% of the 95th %ile for age OR ≥ 35 to < 40 kg/m2 | Morbid obesity | Severe obesity (class 2) | Z68.55 |
| ≥ 140% of the 95%ile for age OR ≥ 40 kg/m2 | Morbid obesity | Severe obesity (class 3) | Z68.56 |
*Codes updated in 2025 to reflect the new adult classes of obesity (classes 1-3).
