1. What is Waist-to-Hip Ratio?

The Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR) is a simple measurement that compares the circumference of your waist to that of your hips. It's used as an indicator of health and the risk of developing serious health conditions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the WHR formula:

Where:

• \( Waist\ Circumference \) — Measured at the narrowest point between ribs and hips (cm)
• \( Hip\ Circumference \) — Measured at the widest point of the buttocks (cm)

Health Risk Categories:

• Men: Low (≤0.85), Moderate (0.85-0.90), High (>0.90)
• Women: Low (≤0.75), Moderate (0.75-0.80), High (>0.80)

3. Importance of WHR Calculation

Details: WHR is a better predictor of cardiovascular risk than BMI alone. It indicates fat distribution - higher WHR suggests more abdominal fat, which is associated with higher health risks.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure waist at the narrowest point (usually just above the belly button) and hips at the widest part of your buttocks. Enter measurements in centimeters, select your gender.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is WHR important?
A: WHR helps assess body fat distribution. Abdominal fat (higher WHR) is more strongly associated with heart disease, diabetes, and other health problems.

Q2: What's a healthy WHR?
A: For men, WHR ≤ 0.85 is healthy. For women, WHR ≤ 0.75 is healthy. Values above these indicate increased health risks.

Q3: How accurate is WHR?
A: WHR is a simple screening tool. For precise body composition analysis, other methods like DEXA scans may be needed.

Q4: Can WHR be improved?
A: Yes, through diet and exercise that reduces abdominal fat while maintaining or increasing muscle mass in the hips.

Q5: Should pregnant women use WHR?
A: WHR is not recommended during pregnancy as hip measurements change significantly.