Toolcroft

Waist-to-Hip Ratio Calculator - WHR Health Risk

Health & Fitness

Calculate waist-to-hip ratio and view the sex-specific WHO screening cutoff separately from Toolcroft display bands. Supports inches and centimetres.

Narrowest point, usually just above navel

Widest point around buttocks

0.85
Waist-to-Hip Ratio
Below WHO screening cutoff
Men: WHR ≥0.90; at/above is associated with substantially increased risk.
Display band: Low
Screening status and display band use the unrounded ratio; the displayed value is rounded to two decimals.
pear shape
Display bands: 0.850.85Display bands0.001.50Low
Display bands
FieldValue
Current value0.85
Range0.00 – 1.50
CategoryLow

Gauge shows the separate Toolcroft display bands (local consumer context).

WHO screening cutoff

The WHO consultation report lists WHR ≥0.90 for men and ≥0.85 for women as cutoffs associated with substantially increased risk. This is a binary screen, not a diagnosis.

Toolcroft display bands (local consumer context)

These separate three-level bands are not WHO categories.

Male
Low: < 0.90
Moderate: ≥ 0.90 and < 1.00
High: ≥ 1.00
Female
Low: < 0.80
Moderate: ≥ 0.80 and < 0.86
High: ≥ 0.86

How to use this tool

  1. Select sex. Choose male or female because the WHO consultation report lists a different screening cutoff for each.
  2. Enter measurements. Enter your waist and hip circumferences in inches or centimetres.
  3. Read your WHR. Read the binary WHO screening status (below or at/above the cutoff) and the separate local Low / Moderate / High display band.

What Is Waist-to-Hip Ratio?

Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is a simple measurement that indicates where body fat is distributed. It is calculated by dividing your waist circumference by your hip circumference. A higher ratio indicates more abdominal (visceral) fat, which is associated with greater health risks.

Why WHR Matters

Research shows that people who carry excess fat around their abdomen (apple-shaped) face higher risks of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome than people who carry fat around the hips and thighs (pear-shaped), even at the same BMI.

WHO screening cutoffs

The WHO consultation report lists WHR cutoffs of ≥0.90 for men and ≥0.85 for women as thresholds associated with substantially increased risk. These are binary screening cutoffs, not a diagnosis. The calculator shows WHO status as below or at/above the sex-specific cutoff. Its separate Low, Moderate, and High display bands are local consumer context; the WHO report does not define these three categories.

Limitations

WHR is a screening tool, not a diagnostic measure. Ethnic differences, age, and measurement technique can all affect results. Consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive health assessment.

How to measure correctly

  • Waist: measure at the narrowest point between your lower rib and navel. Breathe normally; do not suck in.
  • Hips: measure at the widest point across the buttocks, typically about 7–10 inches below the waist.
  • Keep the tape horizontal and snug but not compressing the skin.
  • Do not measure over bulky clothing.
  • Common errors: measuring hips too high, or measuring waist at the navel rather than the narrowest point.

WHR vs. WHtR comparison

WHR (waist ÷ hips) captures fat distribution - the ratio of central to peripheral fat. WHtR (waist ÷ height) captures central adiposity relative to body size. Meta-analyses suggest WHtR is a slightly stronger predictor of cardiovascular risk because it accounts for height. The WHO WHR screening cutoffs associated with substantially increased risk are ≥0.90 for men and ≥0.85 for women; Toolcroft's three-level display bands are separate. WHtR screening references commonly use 0.5 as a central-adiposity threshold for both sexes.

Pregnancy and WHR

WHR is not a valid measurement during or immediately after pregnancy. Waist and hip dimensions change significantly during pregnancy, and postpartum fat redistribution can persist for up to 12 months. Interpret any WHR values from this period with caution and consult a healthcare provider.

Frequently asked questions

What is waist-to-hip ratio?

Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is the circumference of your waist divided by the circumference of your hips. It is used to assess fat distribution and associated health risks, particularly cardiovascular disease.

How do I measure my waist and hips correctly?

Measure your waist at the narrowest point, usually just above the navel. Measure your hips at the widest point around the buttocks. Both measurements should be taken while standing, with the tape parallel to the floor.

What WHO screening cutoffs does this calculator show?

The WHO consultation report lists WHR cutoffs of ≥0.90 for men and ≥0.85 for women as associated with substantially increased risk. These are binary screening cutoffs, not a diagnosis. Toolcroft’s Low, Moderate, and High display bands are separate local consumer context and are not WHO categories.

What does "apple shape" vs "pear shape" mean?

An "apple shape" (high WHR) means fat is concentrated around the abdomen - a higher cardiovascular risk. A "pear shape" (low WHR) means fat is distributed more around the hips and thighs, which carries lower cardiovascular risk.

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