WHR and Health

WHO Thresholds

Men — Low risk: WHR < 0.90. Moderate risk: 0.90–0.99. High risk: ≥ 1.0. Women — Low risk: WHR < 0.80. Moderate risk: 0.80–0.84. High risk: ≥ 0.85. These thresholds are independent of height and weight.

Why Abdominal Fat is Different

Visceral fat (fat around abdominal organs) is metabolically active and more inflammatory than subcutaneous fat. It raises blood pressure, cholesterol, and insulin resistance more directly than fat stored on the hips and thighs.

Measuring Correctly

Measure waist at the midpoint between the lowest rib and the top of the hip bone (iliac crest) — typically at the navel or slightly above. Measure hips at the widest point over the buttocks. Measure standing, relaxed (not sucked in), in the morning before eating.

Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator

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