What Is Waist-to-Height Ratio?
Waist-to-height ratio is waist circumference divided by height, using the same units. It is a simple screening measure related to abdominal fat. Public health guidance, such as the UK’s NICE, suggests keeping waist size to less than half of height — a ratio below 0.5.
Example
A waist of 80 cm and a height of 170 cm give a ratio of 80 ÷ 170 ≈ 0.47.
Limitations
Like BMI, it is a screening tool rather than a diagnosis; a health professional can interpret it alongside other measures.
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Last updated: September 29, 2026. This definition is for general educational purposes only. It is not financial, investment, tax, legal, or medical advice, and it does not recommend any product or course of action. For decisions about your own situation, consult a qualified professional.