Waist to Hip Ratio Calculator

Waist-to-hip ratio, abbreviated WHR, compares the circumference of the waist with the circumference of the hips. It is calculated by dividing waist circumference by hip circumference when both measurements use the same unit. For example, a 75 cm waist divided by 95 cm hips gives a ratio of about 0.789. The result has no unit and offers a quick description of how body mass is distributed around the trunk and lower body. Body fat distribution matters because abdominal, or visceral, fat is metabolically active and is associated with insulin resistance, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and cardiovascular disease. A higher ratio generally indicates that more mass is carried around the waist relative to the hips. This is commonly described as an apple-shaped distribution. A lower ratio is often called pear-shaped because proportionally more mass is carried around the hips. Common World Health Organization screening cutoffs identify increased risk above 0.85 for women and above 0.90 for men. These thresholds are population-level guides, not sharp diagnostic boundaries. The calculator applies those values after gender is selected. It also describes body shape using a ratio above 0.80 for women or above 0.90 for men as apple-shaped. Age, ancestry, pregnancy, muscularity, menopause, and medical conditions can affect interpretation, so the displayed category should never be considered a diagnosis. For consistent measurements, stand upright with feet together and the abdomen relaxed. Measure the waist with a flexible tape placed horizontally at the midpoint between the lowest rib and the top of the hip bone, after a normal breath out. Measure the hips around the widest part of the buttocks while keeping the tape level and close to the body without compressing the skin. Take each measurement twice and use the average if readings differ. WHR complements rather than replaces other measures. Body mass index estimates weight relative to height, waist-to-height ratio adjusts waist for stature, and waist circumference directly tracks abdominal size. Blood pressure, blood glucose, lipids, activity, smoking, family history, sleep, and symptoms provide essential additional context. Use this calculator for screening and trend tracking, and consult a qualified healthcare professional when a result or other health concern needs individual assessment.