What is waist-to-hip ratio (WHR)?
Waist-to-hip (sometimes mistakenly referred to as hip-to-waist) ratio is a comparison between your waist and your hip measurements. It does not tell you if you have pre-diabetes but can be useful in determining risk factors.
According to research scientists at the Imperial College Long, the German Institute of Human Nutrition, and other contributors across Europe in the “EPIC” study:
“…every 5 cm [2 inches] of increase in waist size increases the risk of death by 17%.”
How do I measure waist-to-hip ratio?
Use an ordinary tape measure and:
Image Courtesy MyFoodDiary.com
- Measure your waist at its narrowest (usually around the belly-button or just above it).
- Measure your hips at the widest part around your buttocks.
How do I calculate my waist-to-hip ratio?
To calculate your waist-to-hip ratio divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement. Take that number and compare it to the chart below to assess your health risk category.
Hate to do math? No problem. Use Pre-diabetes.com’s free, online Waist-to-Hip Calculator – just enter your waist and hip measurements and the calculator does all the work for you!
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Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR) Chart |
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|---|---|---|
| Male | Female | Health Risk Based Solely on WHR |
| 0.95 or below | 0.80 or below | Low Health Risk |
| 0.96 to 1.0 | 0.81 to 0.85 | Moderate Health Risk |
| 1.0+ | 0.85+< | High Health Risk |
Chart Source: National Institutes of Health
Waist-to-Hip Ratio and Risks By Body Type
People with apple bodies have a higher risk for developing certain health problems than those with pear shaped bodies. But having a pear shape does not mean that you too, are not at risk.
- People who carry more weight around the waist, chest, and abdomen, have “apple” bodies.
- People who carry more weight around their hips, thighs, and buttocks have “pear-shaped” bodies.
