Question

Explain the waist-hip ratio in detail.

Answer 1

The waist-hip ratio (WHR) is a measure used to describe how body fat is distributed around the waist and hips. It is calculated by dividing waist circumference by hip circumference, with both measurements taken in the same units.

`WHR = "Waist circumference"/"Hip circumference"`

How to measure it: Measure the waist around the narrowest part of the torso (or at the standard waist-measurement site) and the hips around their widest part. Keep the tape level and snug, but do not compress the body. Divide the waist measurement by the hip measurement. WHR is a ratio, so it has no unit. A higher value indicates relatively more fat carried around the waist; interpretation should use appropriate age- and sex-specific health guidelines.