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WEIGHT & BODY · SCREENING

Waist-to-Height Ratio Calculator

Calculate waist-to-height ratio and compare it with the NHS general message to keep waist circumference below half of height.

Method: waist circumference ÷ heightLast updated:
YOUR DETAILS

Your waist & height

Choose your units and enter your waist and height measurements.

Waist-to-height inputs
Units

Your entries are calculated in your browser by this tool and are not intentionally stored or sent by the calculator code.

How to interpret the ratio

The NHS advises trying to keep waist size to less than half of height, corresponding to a waist-to-height ratio below 0.5. This is a general screening message rather than a diagnosis.

Formula

Waist-to-height ratio = waist circumference ÷ height

Use the same unit for both measurements.

Who should be cautious using this tool?

NHS guidance lists situations where its calculator should not be used, including pregnancy, some growth conditions and diagnosed or suspected eating disorders. It also notes specific limits for adults with BMI above 35.

References & sources

  1. NHS: Calculate your waist-to-height ratio.

Sources checked and page updated on . This tool is for general educational use and is not a diagnosis or personal medical prescription.