What WHR Measures
Waist-to-hip ratio compares abdominal circumference with hip circumference. A higher ratio indicates that more circumference is concentrated around the waist relative to the hips.
WHR is a screening marker for central fat distribution. It does not directly measure visceral fat or diagnose cardiovascular or metabolic disease.
Formula And WHO Cutoffs
The units cancel as long as both measurements use the same unit. The WHO report identifies WHR above 0.90 for men and above 0.85 for women as substantially increased metabolic-complication risk cutoffs, while also noting that cut points can vary across populations.
How To Measure
- Stand with feet together and weight evenly distributed.
- Measure the waist at the midpoint between the lowest rib and top of the hip bone after a normal exhale.
- Measure the hips at the widest circumference over the buttocks.
- Keep the tape horizontal and snug without compressing the skin.
Worked Example
A waist of 84 cm and hips of 100 cm produce 84 / 100 = 0.84. Because this is a ratio, equivalent inch measurements return the same result.
Limits And Context
Measurement placement, breathing, tape tension, pregnancy, body shape, and population background affect interpretation. Pair WHR with absolute waist circumference, BMI or body composition, blood pressure, laboratory markers, and clinical history when assessing health risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does waist-to-hip ratio measure?
Waist-to-hip ratio compares abdominal circumference with hip circumference. It is used as a simple indicator of central fat distribution, which can add context beyond body weight or BMI alone.
What waist-to-hip ratio is considered high risk?
Common public health references flag ratios at or above 0.90 for men and 0.85 for women as elevated central obesity risk. This tool also shows a moderate warning zone before those higher-risk ranges.
How should I measure waist and hip circumference?
Measure the waist around the midpoint between the lowest rib and the top of the hip bone after a normal exhale. Measure the hips around the widest part of the buttocks, keeping the tape level and snug without compressing skin.