The Waist-to-Height Ratio (WHtR) is a simple screening tool for central obesity assessment:
| Category | WHtR Range | Health Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Extremely Slim | < 0.35 | May indicate underweight |
| Healthy | 0.35 - 0.44 | Healthy / Low risk |
| Healthy | 0.45 - 0.49 | Healthy, but closer to upper bound |
| Overweight | 0.50 - 0.59 | Increased risk (overweight, higher chance of metabolic disease) |
| Obese | 0.60 - 0.69 | High risk (obese, major cardiovascular/metabolic risks) |
| Severely Obese | ≥ 0.70 | Very high risk (severe obesity, very high cardiometabolic risk) |
Key Rule: "Keep your waist to less than half your height" - WHtR should be below 0.50 for optimal health.
Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized health guidance.
Waist-to-Height Ratio (WHtR) is a simple anthropometric measurement that divides waist circumference by height. It's considered one of the most effective predictors of cardiovascular risk and central obesity across all age groups and ethnicities.
Fun fact: The "0.5 rule" for WHtR was first proposed in 2005 as a simple health guideline: "Keep your waist to less than half your height." This easy-to-remember rule has since been validated by numerous studies worldwide.
Unlike BMI, which doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat or account for fat distribution, WHtR specifically targets abdominal obesity - the most dangerous type of fat accumulation for health.
Research shows that WHtR may be a better predictor of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and mortality risk than BMI, especially in children and older adults.
The calculation is straightforward: divide your waist circumference by your height (using the same units). For example:
Measurement tips:
Central obesity (excess fat around the waist) is particularly harmful because:
The beauty of WHtR is its simplicity and effectiveness - a single measurement can provide powerful insights into health risks.