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Waist measurement

Waist circumference (distance around the waist) is a common measure used to check for fat held around the stomach. Having extra body fat around the stomach-more than 35in. for women and more than 40in. for men-increases your risk of heart disease and diabetes.

How to measure waist circumference: Place a tape measure around your body at the top of your hipbone. This is usually at the level of your belly button, as shown in the picture above.

Primary Medical Reviewer Caroline S. Rhoads, MD
- Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Matthew I. Kim, MD
- Endocrinology & Metabolism
Last Updated April 20, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: April 20, 2007
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