Waist–to–Hip Ratio (WHR)
Waist–to–Hip Ratio (WHR) is the dimensionless ratio of the circumference of the waist to that of the hips. It is used as a marker of abdominal obesity and predictor of cardiovascular and metabolic risk. Unlike BMI, WHR distinguishes between central (android) and peripheral (gynoid) fat patterning.
Measurement: Waist circumference is measured at the midpoint between the lower rib and iliac crest; hip circumference at the widest part of the buttocks. According to WHO guidelines, a WHR ≥0.90 in men or ≥0.85 in women indicates central obesity and substantially increased health risk. The calculator below provides detailed risk categories.
Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR) is a simple body measurement that compares waist circumference to hip circumference:
WHR = waist ÷ hip
It’s used in clinical and public-health settings as a proxy for fat distribution, especially abdominal (central/visceral) adiposity, which is associated with higher cardiometabolic risk than fat stored around the hips and thighs.
Why WHR matters
Two people can have the same weight or BMI but different fat distribution. A higher WHR generally suggests more fat stored around the abdomen (“apple-shaped”), which is linked with increased risk of:
- type 2 diabetes
- hypertension
- cardiovascular disease
- metabolic syndrome
A lower WHR suggests more weight carried around hips/thighs (“pear-shaped”), which is often associated with comparatively lower cardiometabolic risk.
How to measure (practical tips)
For consistent results:
- Waist: measure at the midpoint between the lower rib and the top of the hip bone (or at the narrowest point if clearly visible).
- Hip: measure around the widest part of the buttocks.
- Use a flexible tape, keep it horizontal, measure after a normal exhale, and avoid sucking in the stomach.
Interpretation (common adult cutoffs)
A widely used interpretation is:
- Women: WHR > 0.85 → higher cardiometabolic risk
- Men: WHR > 0.90 → higher cardiometabolic risk
These cutoffs are screening tools, not diagnoses. Age, ethnicity, pregnancy/postpartum status, and body composition can affect meaning, so WHR is best used with other clinical markers (BP, lipids, glucose, waist circumference, etc.).
