Waist-to-height ratio shows health risk better than BMI

MEASURING someone's waist-to-height ratio is a much better indicator of health risks associated with carrying excess fat than the body mass index — particularly in older people, according to research.

- STORM NEWTON

BMI does not indicate where fat is stored and as people lose muscle with age, their body fat percentage may rise despite the scales showing the pounds coming off, experts said.

Using a tape measure to assess the waist-to-height ratio may help pinpoint those who have more fat stored around their vital organs which puts their health at risk, they suggest.

BMI is calculated by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by height in metres squared, while the waist-to-height ratio divides waist circumference by height.

According to researchers, if the circumference of the waist is less than half a person's height, it is "a good indicator" that they are at a healthy weight.