How this waist to hip ratio calculator works
You enter your sex, your waist, and your hips. We divide your waist by your hips.
Waist to hip ratio = waist ÷ hips
For example, a waist of 32 in (81 cm) and hips of 40 in (102 cm) give a ratio of 32 ÷ 40 = 0.80.
We round the ratio to two decimals and compare it with the cut-off for your sex. These are the commonly used WHO cut-offs, listed in a 2008 WHO expert report on waist size and waist to hip ratio:
| Substantially increased risk | |
|---|---|
| Women | 0.85 or higher |
| Men | 0.90 or higher |
The report links ratios at or above these cut-offs with a substantially increased risk of metabolic problems, such as type 2 diabetes.
Your waist size check
The calculator also looks at your waist on its own, using cut-offs from the same report:
| Increased risk | Substantially increased risk | |
|---|---|---|
| Women | Over 80 cm (31.5 in) | Over 88 cm (34.6 in) |
| Men | Over 94 cm (37 in) | Over 102 cm (40.2 in) |
Your ratio and your waist size can tell different stories. For example, someone with a large frame may have a big waist but a lower ratio. Looking at both gives you a better picture.
How to measure
- Waist: Stand up and breathe out normally. Measure at your narrowest point, or halfway between your lowest rib and the top of your hip bone.
- Hips: Measure around the widest part of your buttocks.
- Keep the tape level and snug, but not tight. Use the same units for both.
What to do with your result
These cut-offs are a screening tool, not a diagnosis. If your result is at or above the cut-off, it is a good reason to look at your eating and activity habits. Small steps like eating more protein and fiber, cutting added sugar, and moving more can help.
For a simple check that uses one cut-off for everyone, try our waist to height ratio calculator. To estimate your body fat from your measurements, use the body fat calculator.
This calculator is for adults. If you are pregnant, under 18, or have a health condition, talk to your doctor about what your numbers mean.