Vyötäröpituussuhde

Vyötäröpituussuhde, often abbreviated as WHR, is a ratio of the circumference of the waist to the circumference of the hips. It is used as a measure of body fat distribution and can be an indicator of potential health risks. The measurement is typically taken at the narrowest point of the torso for the waist and at the widest point of the hips.

A healthy WHR can vary based on sex. For women, a WHR below 0.85 is generally considered healthy, while for men, a WHR below 0.90 is typically seen as favorable. Higher WHR values, particularly those indicating an "apple shape" where fat is stored around the abdomen, are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and other metabolic conditions. Conversely, a "pear shape," with fat predominantly stored in the hips and thighs, is generally considered to carry a lower health risk.

WHR is a simple and inexpensive tool for health assessment, often used in conjunction with body mass index (BMI). While it doesn't provide a complete picture of an individual's health, it offers valuable insights into fat distribution patterns that can influence health outcomes. Regular monitoring of WHR can help individuals understand their risk profile and encourage lifestyle modifications to improve their health.