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.
Current as of: December 11, 2019
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Brian O'Brien, MD, FRCPC - Internal Medicine & Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine & Rhonda O'Brien, MS, RD, CDE - Certified Diabetes Educator
