The Waist Hip Ratio is a common measurement used to assess body shape and health. The word "waist" is spelled /weɪst/ with the long "a" sound, while "hip" is pronounced /hɪp/ with a short "i" sound. The combination of these two words is written as "Waist Hip Ratio," with each word retaining its original spelling. This ratio is often used by healthcare professionals to assess the risk of developing certain health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease and obesity.
Waist Hip Ratio (WHR) is a numerical measure used in anthropometry to assess the distribution of body fat and to determine the overall body shape of an individual. It is calculated by dividing the circumference of the waist by the circumference of the hips. The waist circumference is typically measured at the narrowest point, usually just above the belly button, while the hip circumference is usually measured at the widest point of the buttocks.
WHR is an important indicator of health and is commonly used in medical and scientific research as well as in clinical settings. It provides information about an individual's body fat distribution, which has been found to be associated with various health risks. Research suggests that individuals with higher WHR, indicating an apple-shaped body (where the waist circumference is greater than the hip circumference), may be at a higher risk of developing obesity-related health conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and certain cancers. On the other hand, individuals with a lower WHR, indicating a pear-shaped body (where the hip circumference is greater than the waist circumference), are generally considered to have a lower risk of these health conditions.
WHR is also used in the field of beauty and attractiveness, as it is believed that a certain range of WHR is more aesthetically pleasing. Different cultures and societies may have different ideals of attractiveness regarding WHR, but in general, a WHR close to 0.7 for women and 0.9 for men is often associated with attractive body proportions. However, it is essential to note that these aesthetic standards can vary, and attractiveness is subjective.