Waist-Hip Ratio
Definition
Waist-hip ratio is a measurement that compares the size of your waist to the size of your hips. It's used to assess body fat distribution and potential health risks.
Scientific / Technical Definition
The waist-hip ratio (WHR) is a simple measurement calculated by dividing the circumference of the waist by the circumference of the hips. It is a useful metric for assessing central obesity, which is considered a predictor of health risks such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
Benefits
- Easy assessment of body fat distribution.
- Helps predict cardiovascular risk.
- Indicator of metabolic health.
- Non-invasive and cost-effective method.
Examples
- A person with a 30-inch waist and 40-inch hips would have a waist-hip ratio of 0.75.
- WHR is commonly used in health assessments and physical examinations.
Additional Information
- Effects: The waist-hip ratio provides insight into fat distribution. Higher ratios signify visceral fat accumulation, which is linked to increased health risks.
References
Last updated: 10/19/2024