Waist to Hip Ratio Calculator

Interpretation bands used here

These bands match the calculator output. The WHO expert consultation on waist circumference and waist-hip ratio reviews WHR as a public-health screening measure for cardiovascular disease, diabetes and mortality risk. Local clinical guidance may use different action points, especially for people of South Asian or East Asian ancestry, so treat the result as a starting point rather than a medical verdict.

Formula and example

WHR = waist circumference ÷ hip circumference

Example: an 82 cm waist and 100 cm hips gives 82 ÷ 100 = 0.82. The same ratio comes from 32.3 in and 39.4 in. The unit does not matter as long as both measurements use the same unit.

WHR vs BMI

BMI estimates weight relative to height. WHR adds information about where body fat is carried. In the INTERHEART study, waist-to-hip ratio was more strongly associated with myocardial infarction risk than BMI, but neither measure replaces a clinical assessment. Blood pressure, lipids, glucose, smoking, activity level and family history still matter.

How to measure accurately

• Tape: Use a flexible, non-stretch tape. A metal tape measure is not suitable.
• Position: Stand with feet close together, arms relaxed and weight evenly distributed.
• Contact: Keep the tape snug and horizontal, but do not compress the skin.
• Breathing: Read the waist measurement at the end of a normal exhale.
• Repeat: Take two or three readings and average them if they are close.

When WHR needs caution

• Pregnancy or recent childbirth: Body shape changes make WHR hard to interpret.
• Recent surgery, swelling or abdominal conditions: The measurement may not reflect usual body composition.
• Very muscular builds: Larger gluteal muscles can lower WHR even when waist circumference is still important.
• Children and teenagers: Adult screening bands do not apply.
• Higher-risk backgrounds: Some populations develop cardiometabolic risk at lower central-adiposity levels. Use local medical guidance when available.