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Waist Measurement

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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.

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer 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

Current as ofOctober 9, 2017

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