To measure your waist circumference, take a flexible tape measure and wrap it around your abdomen, just above your hip bones. Make sure the tape measure is snug but not too tight. Note down the measurement in inches or centimeters.
To calculate the waist-to-height ratio, divide your waist circumference by your height. If you measured your waist in inches, convert your height to inches for consistency. Use the following conversion: 1 inch = 2.54 cm.
For example, if your waist circumference is 36 inches and your height is 72 inches (6 feet), the calculation would be as follows:
Waist-to-Height Ratio = Waist Circumference (in inches) / Height (in inches)
Waist-to-Height Ratio = 36 inches / 72 inches = 0.5
In this example, the waist-to-height ratio is 0.5 or 50%, indicating that it meets the threshold for increased future cardiovascular risk.
Remember, this ratio is a simple tool for initial assessment, but it's always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation of your cardiovascular risk factors.