Bauchumfang

Bauchumfang, or waist circumference, is a simple anthropometric measure used to assess abdominal obesity and central fat distribution. It correlates with visceral fat and is associated with increased risk for metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, independently of body mass index (BMI).

Measurement should follow standardized procedures. The measurement is taken with a non-stretchable tape placed horizontally around the abdomen at the level of the midpoint between the lower margin of the last rib and the top of the iliac crest. The person stands upright, with relaxed abdomen and arms at the side, after normal expiration. The tape should be snug but not compressing the skin. Usually at least two measurements are taken and the average is used; if the two values differ by more than about 2 cm, a third measurement is recommended.

Interpretation of the waist circumference depends on population and guideline. Thresholds vary, but commonly cited points include: increased health risk at roughly 94 cm for men and 80 cm for women (as used in some European guidelines), with higher risk levels at about 102 cm for men and 88 cm for women in other guidelines. Some guidelines use different cutoffs, reflecting population differences in fat distribution and associated risk.

Limitations include measurement error, variability due to recent meals or breathing, and the fact that waist circumference is a proxy for central adiposity rather than a direct measure of visceral fat. It should be used in conjunction with other indicators such as BMI, waist-to-hip ratio, and metabolic risk factors. In children and adolescents, age- and sex-specific percentiles are used rather than fixed cutoffs. Bauchumfang is widely used in clinical practice and epidemiology to monitor risk and track changes during lifestyle interventions.