This waist-to-hip ratio calculator divides your waist measurement by your hip measurement and compares the result with World Health Organization (WHO) thresholds. It also checks your waist size on its own, which is another simple indicator of health risk.
WHO risk thresholds
| Men | Women | |
|---|---|---|
| Waist-to-hip ratio – substantially increased risk | 0.90 or more | 0.85 or more |
| Waist – increased risk | Over 94 cm (37 in) | Over 80 cm (31.5 in) |
| Waist – substantially increased risk | Over 102 cm (40 in) | Over 88 cm (34.5 in) |
How to measure
- Waist: stand relaxed and measure midway between your lowest rib and the top of your hip bone, after breathing out.
- Hips: measure around the widest part of your buttocks.
- Keep the tape level and snug but not tight.
Worked example
A woman with a 32-inch waist and 40-inch hips has a ratio of 0.80, below the WHO threshold of 0.85.
Why it matters
Fat around the abdomen is more strongly linked with heart disease, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure than fat on the hips and thighs. That is why waist measures can add useful information to BMI.
Frequently asked questions
What is a healthy waist-to-hip ratio?
Under 0.90 for men and under 0.85 for women, according to the World Health Organization.
Is waist-to-hip ratio better than BMI?
It shows where fat is stored, which BMI does not. Many health professionals use both, along with waist-to-height ratio.
Can I lower my waist-to-hip ratio?
Losing weight through diet and exercise usually reduces abdominal fat. You cannot choose where fat is lost, but waist size often falls with overall weight loss.
Do the thresholds differ by ethnicity?
Yes. Lower waist thresholds are often used for South Asian, Chinese and Japanese people because health risks rise at smaller sizes.
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Sources
Last reviewed: October 2026. For information only; not medical advice. Talk to a doctor about any health concerns.