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Learn more →Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator (cardiovascular risk)
Enter waist and hip measurements in cm. The calculator returns WHR and your risk category (low / moderate / high / very high) based on WHO guidelines.
WHR
0.79
Moderate risk
Risk category per WHO 2008 thresholds. Use as a screening tool, not a diagnosis.
How it works
Why WHR matters
WHR (waist-to-hip ratio) is a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome — better than BMI alone for assessing risk. It captures abdominal (visceral) fat, which is metabolically active and harmful, distinct from peripheral (hip/thigh) fat which is mostly inert.
Two people with identical BMIs can have very different WHRs. A pear-shaped body (lower WHR) carries less metabolic risk than an apple-shaped (higher WHR) body — even at the same total weight.
WHO risk thresholds (2008)
Men: <0.85 low risk, 0.85-0.90 moderate, 0.90-1.00 high, ≥1.00 very high risk.
Women: <0.75 low risk, 0.75-0.80 moderate, 0.80-0.85 high, ≥0.85 very high risk.
These thresholds are general adult guidelines. Asian populations sometimes use lower thresholds (e.g., women high risk at 0.80) due to different body composition norms.
Higher WHR correlates with: heart disease, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, fatty liver, certain cancers.
How to measure correctly
Waist: at the smallest part of the torso, between the bottom of the rib cage and the top of the hip bone. Tape parallel to the floor. Relax — don't suck in.
Hip: at the widest point of the hips, including the buttocks. Tape level with the floor.
Measure first thing in the morning before eating or drinking. Take 2-3 measurements, use the average. ±1 cm error in either dimension changes WHR by ~0.01.
Frequently asked questions
›Is WHR better than BMI?
For cardiovascular risk: yes. WHR captures abdominal fat that BMI doesn't. For overall body composition assessment, both have limitations and DEXA scans are best. Use WHR alongside BMI, not as a replacement.
›What's a 'healthy' WHR for men?
Below 0.85 is low risk per WHO. Athletes often have 0.80-0.85 — the lower end is fine.
›What's a 'healthy' WHR for women?
Below 0.75 is low risk per WHO. Most women's natural body shape gives 0.70-0.85, with the average around 0.75-0.80.
›Can I improve my WHR?
Yes — primarily by reducing abdominal fat. Key strategies: combined cardio + strength training, calorie deficit (modest, sustainable), reducing simple carbs and alcohol. Spot reduction (only abs exercises) doesn't work; you need overall fat loss.
›Why does the threshold differ for men and women?
Average body composition differs by sex. Women carry more fat in hips and thighs (peripheral); men more in abdomen. The thresholds are set so 'high risk' identifies elevated risk relative to typical body composition for each sex.
›Is this calibrated for all ethnicities?
WHO thresholds are universal. Some research suggests lower thresholds for Asian populations (e.g., 0.80 for women high risk). Use medical guidelines specific to your background if available.
›Should I worry if my WHR is high but BMI is normal?
Possibly. 'TOFI' (thin outside, fat inside) describes people with normal BMI but high abdominal fat. They have elevated metabolic risk despite looking lean. WHR catches this; BMI doesn't.
›Does the data leave my browser?
No. Calculation runs locally; nothing is sent to a server.
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DisclosureRelated tools
This tool is for general information only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about your health.