What does the term "waist-to-hip ratio" measure?

The term "waist-to-hip ratio" specifically measures body fat distribution and helps assess associated cardiovascular risk. This metric focuses on the proportion of the circumference of the waist to that of the hips, which is indicative of how fat is distributed in the body. A higher waist-to-hip ratio indicates a greater accumulation of abdominal fat, which is often linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and other health issues. This makes it a valuable tool in understanding overall health beyond just weight or body mass index (BMI), as it focuses on the location of fat storage rather than total body weight or composition.

Other options do not accurately capture the purpose of the waist-to-hip ratio. For example, measuring overall body weight compared to height relates to BMI, whereas assessing muscle mass versus body fat percentage involves different metrics entirely, such as body composition analysis. Bone density assessments are not related to waist and hip measurements; they typically involve scans or tests measuring the density of bones in relation to weight.