How this calculator works
Waist-to-height ratio divides waist circumference by height. The adult screening boundary is 0.50 regardless of sex, reflecting the guidance to keep waist circumference below half of height. This page applies the adult boundary only. Although the measure is studied in children aged five and over, child interpretation needs age-appropriate guidance that this form does not provide. Pregnancy and individual body shape can limit interpretation. The result is an estimate for information only and is not medical advice.
Formula
WHtR = waist circumference / height, in matching units. Below 0.50 is the adult healthy range; 0.50 and above indicates increased cardiometabolic risk.
Worked example
At 175 cm tall, an 80 cm waist gives 0.46. A 100 cm waist gives 0.57, above the adult boundary.
Advertisement
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply this category to a child?
This page reports adult categories. Child centile interpretation is outside its scope.
Does the ratio measure body fat?
No. It describes central body size relative to height and is only one health screening measure.
Do waist and height need the same unit?
No. The unit selectors convert both to metres before division, so you can enter each in a different unit.