Waist-To-Height Ratio

Definition

The waist-to-height ratio is a simple measurement that compares the circumference of your waist to your height. It's used to assess whether an individual is at a healthy weight based on the distribution of body fat.

Scientific / Technical Definition

The waist-to-height ratio is a dimensionless index calculated by dividing an individual's waist circumference by their height. It is a useful indicator of fat distribution and potential health risks related to abdominal obesity, providing a more accurate representation of risk compared to body mass index (BMI) alone.

Benefits

• Helps to identify individuals at risk of obesity-related health issues more accurately than BMI.
• Can be used as an early screening tool for cardiovascular diseases.
• Simple measurement requiring only a tape measure, making it accessible and easy to use.

Examples

• A waist-to-height ratio of less than 0.5 is generally considered healthy for both men and women.
• Calculation example: If a person's waist is 30 inches and their height is 65 inches, their waist-to-height ratio would be 0.46.

Additional Information

• Effects: The waist-to-height ratio provides insights into the risk of developing diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and hypertension, which are associated with abdominal obesity.

Related Terms

• Body Mass Index
• Waist Circumference
• Waist-To-Hip Ratio
• Body Measurements

References

• The waist-to-height ratio as an indicator of 'early health risk': simpler and more predictive than using a 'matrix' based on BMI and waist circumference
• Waist-to-height ratio is a better screening tool than waist circumference and BMI for adult cardiometabolic risk factors: systematic review and meta-analysis