Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR) Calculator
Differentiate apple-shaped central adiposity from pear-shaped peripheral fat storage using official World Health Organization clinical thresholds.
Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR) Calculator
Differentiate android (apple-shaped) vs gynoid (pear-shaped) body fat distribution using World Health Organization guidelines.
Waist / Hip
WHO threshold: >=0.90 elevated
Gynoid (Pear-shaped)
Threshold >= 0.90
World Health Organization (WHO) Interpretation:
According to the WHO STEPS protocol, a WHR of 0.90 or higher for men and 0.85 or higher for women indicates an android (apple-shaped) pattern with concentrated visceral fat surrounding abdominal organs, which carries elevated risks for type 2 diabetes and hypertension.
Clinical Screening Reference & Medical Notice
Calculations provided on HOW WEIGHT are based on published statistical standards (such as WHO, CDC, and peer-reviewed metabolic equations) and are intended for educational and general screening purposes only.
They do not directly measure body fat distribution or visceral adipose tissue, nor do they replace personalized clinical diagnostic evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider. Learn more about our clinical methodology & disclaimers →
Clinical Significance of Body Fat Topography
In clinical cardiology and endocrinology, body fat topography—where adipose tissue is anatomically deposited—is often a far stronger predictor of adverse health outcomes than total kilograms. Intra-abdominal visceral fat drains directly into the hepatic portal system, elevating free fatty acids and triggering systemic vascular inflammation. Measuring WHR enables individuals to identify central obesity even when overall body mass index appears satisfactory.
| Cardiovascular Risk Level | Men WHR | Women WHR | Predominant Body Shape |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low Risk | < 0.90 | < 0.80 | Gynoid (Pear-shaped, peripheral distribution) |
| Moderate Risk | 0.90 – 0.99 | 0.80 – 0.84 | Intermediate distribution |
| High Risk | ≥ 1.00 | ≥ 0.85 | Android (Apple-shaped, visceral central adiposity) |
Worked WHR Example
Consider a female measuring a waist circumference of 74 cm (29.1 in) and a hip circumference of 96 cm (37.8 in):
- Calculation: 74 cm ÷ 96 cm = 0.77.
- Comparison to WHO standard: 0.77 is below the 0.80 female threshold.
- Clinical Classification: Classified as "Low Risk" with a healthy gynoid distribution pattern.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR)?
The Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR) compares the circumference of your waist to that of your hips. It is a well-established clinical indicator of body shape (android/apple vs. gynoid/pear) and visceral abdominal fat distribution.
What are the World Health Organization (WHO) WHR cutoffs?
According to WHO expert consultations, a WHR of 0.90 or greater in men and 0.85 or greater in women indicates substantial abdominal adiposity and significantly elevated risk for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
What is the difference between android and gynoid fat distribution?
Android (apple-shaped) body fat is concentrated around the trunk, abdomen, and internal viscera, which is strongly correlated with arterial plaque and metabolic dysfunction. Gynoid (pear-shaped) body fat is stored subcutaneously in the hips, buttocks, and thighs, which is metabolically less hazardous and functions primarily as a reproductive energy reserve.
How should I accurately measure waist and hip circumference?
For your waist: measure at the midpoint between the bottom of your ribs and the top of your hips after a normal exhale. For your hips: measure at the widest diameter around your buttocks while standing with feet together.
Can a person with a normal BMI have a high WHR?
Yes. This is termed "metabolically obese normal weight" (MONW) or central adiposity. An individual may possess a standard BMI under 25.0 while storing excess visceral fat around the abdomen, resulting in elevated cardiovascular risk despite a deceptively normal scale weight.