Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator: WHO Cutoffs and Health Risk
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Your waist-to-hip ratio is your waist measurement divided by your hip measurement. The WHO cutoff for abdominal obesity is 0.90 for men and 0.85 for women.
A waist of 31 inches and hips of 40 inches give a ratio of 0.78. The World Health Organization uses 0.85 as the cutoff for abdominal obesity in women, so this is below it. Waist circumference alone is in the “not increased” risk category.
WHO reference
| Men | Women | |
|---|---|---|
| Abdominal obesity (ratio) | 0.90 or higher | 0.85 or higher |
| Waist, increased risk | 94 cm (37 in) | 80 cm (31.5 in) |
| Waist, substantially increased | 102 cm (40 in) | 88 cm (35 in) |
Show the steps
- Waist-to-hip ratio = 31 ÷ 40 = 0.775.
- Compare with 0.85 for women.
Waist-to-hip ratio
Ratio = waist circumference ÷ hip circumference
Waist-to-height ratio = waist ÷ height
- A high ratio is linked to higher risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. It is a screening measure, not a diagnosis.
- This is general information, not medical advice.
Estimates for planning and learning, not financial, tax, legal or medical advice. Check figures with your lender, tax preparer or doctor before you act.
About this calculator
Where you carry fat matters for health. Fat around the waist is linked to a higher risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes than fat on the hips and thighs. The waist-to-hip ratio is a simple way to check this with a tape measure.
This calculator gives your ratio, compares it with the WHO cutoff for your sex, and shows waist circumference risk levels. Enter your height too, for the waist-to-height ratio.
How to use it
- Stand relaxed and measure your waist midway between your lowest rib and the top of your hip bone, after a normal exhale.
- Measure your hips at the widest part of your buttocks.
- Enter both, choose your sex and units, then read the ratio.
WHO reference values
- Waist-to-hip ratio: 0.90 or higher for men and 0.85 or higher for women is abdominal obesity.
- Waist circumference: increased risk at 94 cm (37 in) for men and 80 cm (31.5 in) for women. Substantially increased at 102 cm (40 in) and 88 cm (35 in).
- Waist-to-height: keeping it under 0.5 is a common guideline.
Sources
Quick check: test yourself
A waist of 32 inches and hips of 40 inches give a ratio of…
Correct answer: 0.80. 32 ÷ 40 = 0.80.
The WHO cutoff for abdominal obesity in women is…
Correct answer: 0.85. 0.85 for women and 0.90 for men.
Where do you measure the hips?
Correct answer: At the widest part of the buttocks. Hips are measured at the widest part.
Pick an answer for each question.
Common questions
How do I calculate waist-to-hip ratio?
Divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement.
What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?
Below 0.90 for men and below 0.85 for women, according to the WHO.
Is waist-to-hip ratio better than BMI?
It shows where fat is stored, which BMI does not. Doctors often use both.
Can I use any units?
Yes, as long as both measurements use the same unit.
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