Waist-to-Hip Ratio
Definition
The waist-to-hip ratio is a measurement that compares the size of your waist to your hips, giving an indication of body fat distribution and potential health risks.
Scientific / Technical Definition
The waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is calculated by dividing the circumference of the waist by that of the hips. This ratio is used in medical assessments to evaluate obesity-related health risks such as cardiovascular disease, as central fat accumulation (abdominal obesity) is often a predictor of such conditions.
Benefits
- Helps in assessing health risks related to body fat distribution.
- Can be a predictor of cardiovascular disease risk.
- Assists in monitoring changes in body composition over time.
Examples
- A woman with a 28-inch waist and 36-inch hips has a WHR of 0.78.
- A man with a 34-inch waist and 40-inch hips has a WHR of 0.85.
Additional Information
- Importance: Waist-to-hip ratio is an important metric for understanding how fat is distributed across the body, which can influence overall health and risk of disease.
References
Last updated: 10/18/2024