Vööümbermõõt

Vööümbermõõt, often translated as waist circumference, is a common anthropometric measurement used to assess body fat distribution. It is the measurement of the distance around the natural waistline, typically taken at the narrowest point between the ribs and the hips. This measurement is considered a key indicator of abdominal obesity, which is strongly linked to an increased risk of various health problems.

Measuring vööümbermõõt is a simple process. The individual should stand with their feet flat on the floor, arms relaxed at their sides, and exhale normally. A non-stretchable measuring tape is then placed around the natural waistline, ensuring it is level and not too tight. For men, a vööümbermõõt of 94 cm (37 inches) or more is generally considered high risk, while for women, it is 80 cm (31.5 inches) or more. These thresholds can vary slightly depending on specific health guidelines or populations.

Elevated vööümbermõõt can indicate visceral fat, which is the fat stored deep within the abdominal cavity around vital organs. This type of fat is metabolically active and releases inflammatory substances, contributing to conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer. Therefore, monitoring vööümbermõõt is an important part of health assessments, alongside other measurements like body mass index (BMI). Lifestyle modifications, including a healthy diet and regular physical activity, can help reduce vööümbermõõt and its associated health risks.