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Waist Measurement

Picture of how to measure your waist

Waist circumference (distance around the waist) is a common measure used to check for fat held around the stomach. Having extra body fat around the stomach—more than 88 cm (35 in.) for women and more than 102 cm (40 in.) for men—increases your risk of heart disease and diabetes.

How to measure waist circumference: Place a tape measure around your body at the top of your hip bone. This is usually at the level of your belly button, as shown in the picture above.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Brian D. O'Brien, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Rhonda O'Brien, MS, RD, CDE - Certified Diabetes Educator
Last Revised June 12, 2011

Last Revised: June 12, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Brian D. O'Brien, MD - Internal Medicine & Rhonda O'Brien, MS, RD, CDE - Certified Diabetes Educator

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