Central Adiposity Measurements

There are three measurements of the waist that measures of central adiposity. These measurements are:

• Waist To Hip Ratio
• Waist To Height Ratio
• Waist Circumference

Adiposity is the distribution of fat around the body. Central adiposity is the distribution of fat around the abdomen. Central adiposity is also called "apple shaped" bodies.

Calculating Waist to Hip Ratio

To measure the waist to hip ratio, you will need a measuring tape, pen, paper and a mirror. Follow these steps to determine your waist to hip ratio.

1. Undress and stand in front of the mirror.
2. Measure your waist, that is, the narrowest part of your abdomen and write it down. See the image to the right (1).
3. Measure your hip, that is, the largest part below your waist and write it down. See the image to the right (2).
4. Divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement.

Waist to Hip Ratio =

Waist Measurement --------------------------- Hip Measurement

Calculating Waist to Height Ratio

Follow these steps to determine your waist to height ratio.

1. Undress and stand in front of the mirror.
2. Measure your waist, that is, the narrowest part of your abdomen and write it down. See the image to the right (1).
3. Measure your height and write it down. See the image to the right (2).
4. Divide your waist measurement by your height measurement.

Waist to Height Ratio =

Waist Measurement --------------------------- Height Measurement

Calculating Waist Circumference

Follow these steps to determine your waist to height ratio.

1. Undress and stand in front of the mirror.
2. Measure your waist, that is, the narrowest part of your abdomen and write it down. See the image to the right (1).

Degree of Central Adiposity

The following table illustrates the degree of central adiposity using the three waist measurements.

Measurement	Men	Women
Waist to Hip Ratio	Normal risk: < 1.0 Increase risk: > 1.0	Normal risk: < 0.8 Increased risk: > 0.8
Waist Circumference	Normal Risk: < 94 cm Increase risk: 94 cm Substantial Risk: 102 cm	Normal Risk: < 80 cm Increase risk: 80 cm Substantial Risk: 88 cm
Waist to Height Ratio	Normal Risk: < 0.5 cm Increase risk: > 0.5 Substantial Risk: >0.6	Normal Risk: < 0.5 cm Increase risk: > 0.5 Substantial Risk: >0.6

The information provided is intended solely for general information and is NOT to replace advice from your physician or other medical professionals and should NOT be relied upon for any diagnosis, treatment or cure. Always check with your doctor before starting any new drug, alternative, natural or herbal treatments and supplements.