
Waist-to-Hips Ratio (WHR)
Waist-to-Hips ratio (WHR) compares the circumference of your waist to that of your hips and is a tool doctors use to assess whether excess weight might pose health risks.
Why track my Waist-to-Hips ratio?
Waist-to-Hips ratio (WHR) is used to assess body fat distribution, which can indicate potential health risks. It helps determine whether fat is primarily stored around the abdomen (apple-shaped body) or around the hips and thighs (pear-shaped body).
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Health implications include
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Higher WHR (apple-shaped body): Associated with a higher risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other metabolic conditions.
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Lower WHR (pear-shaped body): Generally considered less risky for these health conditions.
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Unlike body mass index (BMI), which evaluates the relationship between your weight and height, WHR focuses on the ratio of your waist circumference to your hip circumference.
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This distinction matters because not all types of excess weight carry the same health risks.
What does the Waist-to-Hips ratio mean for me?
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According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a WHR of 1.0 or greater increases the risk of chronic conditions including heart disease that are linked to being overweight
Waist-to-Hips ratio guidelines
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Women
Low health risk: 0.80 or lower
Mid health risk: 0.81 - 0.85
High health risk: 0.86 or greater
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Men
Low health risk: 0.95 or lower
Mid health risk: 0.96 - 1.0
High health risk: 1.01 or greater