Data source & methodology
AuthoritativeDataSource: World Health Organization (WHO), Waist Circumference and Waist–Hip Ratio: Report of a WHO Expert Consultation (Geneva, 8–11 Dec 2008; published 2011). View source. All calculations strictly follow the formulas and thresholds reported by this source.
The formula explained
WHR is unitless. Use the same units (cm or inches) for both measurements.
Glossary of variables
- Waist circumference — horizontal measure midway between the lowest rib and the iliac crest after a normal exhalation.
- Hip circumference — horizontal measure at the widest part of the buttocks/hips.
- WHR — waist divided by hip; a proxy for central fat distribution.
- Risk category (WHO) — sex-specific thresholds:
- Men: WHR < 0.90 (lower risk), 0.90–0.99 (elevated), ≥ 1.00 (high)
- Women: WHR < 0.80 (lower risk), 0.80–0.84 (elevated), ≥ 0.85 (high)
How it works: a step-by-step example
Inputs: Sex = Female; Waist = 78 cm; Hip = 100 cm.
Result: WHR = 0.78 → falls below 0.80, indicating a lower central adiposity risk per WHO female thresholds.
Frequently asked questions
What is considered a high WHR?
Per WHO, substantially increased cardiometabolic risk is indicated at WHR ≥ 0.90 for men and ≥ 0.85 for women.
Is WHR more informative than BMI?
They capture different aspects. WHR reflects fat distribution and can predict risk independent of BMI; they are complementary in clinical assessment.
How do I improve an adverse WHR?
Lifestyle strategies that reduce central fat—balanced nutrition, resistance + aerobic training, sleep, and stress management—can help. Consult a clinician before changes.
Does ethnicity affect WHR thresholds?
WHO notes variation by sex, age, and ethnicity. Population-specific cut-points may differ; combine WHR with BMI, waist circumference, and professional advice.
Should I use cm or inches?
Either is fine—just use the same unit for both measures. The ratio is unitless.
Medical disclaimer: This tool is for information only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Formula (LaTeX) + variables + units
\( \text{WHR} = \frac{\text{Waist circumference}}{\text{Hip circumference}} \)
\( \text{WHR} = \frac{78}{100} = 0.78 \)
- No variables provided in audit spec.
- View source — who.int · Accessed 2026-01-19
https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241501491 - Home — calcdomain.com · Accessed 2026-01-19
https://calcdomain.com/ - Health & Fitness — calcdomain.com · Accessed 2026-01-19
https://calcdomain.com/health-fitness - Health Metrics — calcdomain.com · Accessed 2026-01-19
https://calcdomain.com/subcategories/health-metrics - BMI Calculator — calcdomain.com · Accessed 2026-01-19
https://calcdomain.com/bmi-calculator - Body Fat % (US Navy) — calcdomain.com · Accessed 2026-01-19
https://calcdomain.com/body-fat
Last code update: 2026-01-19
- Initial audit spec draft generated from HTML extraction (review required).
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- Confirm sources are authoritative and relevant to the calculator methodology.