waist circumference

Waist circumference is a measure of the distance around the abdomen. It is an indicator of abdominal fat. Waist circumference is positively correlated with abdominal fat content. The presence of excess fat in the abdomen out of proportion to total body fat is an independent predictor of risk factors and morbidity. A measurement above 102 cm (40 inches) in men and above 88 cm (34.5 inches) in women brings an increased health risk. As a rule of thumb, it can be said that your waist should be less than half your height.

How to measure Waist Circumference?

The correct position for measuring waist circumference is midway between the upper hip bone and the uppermost border of the right iliac crest. In practice it may be difficult to accurately palpate those bony landmarks. In that case placing the tape at the level of the belly button is recommended.
To accurately measure your waist circumference:

- Ensure that the tape is sung but does not push tightly into the skin
- Measure after breathing out normally; do not “suck in” the stomach.

Waist circumference or Body Mass Index (BMI)?

When used in combination with BMI, waist circumference is a better indicator of health risk than BMI alone. In patients with a BMI in the region of 25 – 35 incorporating measurements of waist circumference will provide additional information about risk and can be used an additional measure of progress with weight loss.