Waist Measurement
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: October 13, 2016
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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