- Waist circumference (WC) is an easily obtained indicator of central adiposity, which predicts cardio-metabolic morbidity and mortality (Madden and Smith, 2016) and is used alongside other markers of body composition in the diagnosis and management of conditions such as sarcopenic obesity (Atkins et al. 2014).
- A standardised technique is required to obtain accurate and reproducible results as different methodologies can provide significantly different results (Madden and Smith, 2016).
- WC should ideally be measured without clothing covering the measurement site (Madden and Smith, 2016).
- WC is defined as the narrowest point between the lower costal (10th rib) border and the top of the iliac crest. If there is no obvious narrowing, the measurement should be taken at the mid-point between the lower costal rib and iliac crest (Norton and Olds, 2000).
- The individual should assume a relaxed standing position with their arms folded across their thorax.
- Standing at the side of the individual, the individual should breathe normally and the WC reading should be taken at the end of normal expiration (Norton and Olds, 2000).
- WC is not reliable in those who have ascites, a colostomy or ileostomy (Madden and Smith, 2016).
- Classification of risk can be determined using the cut offs provided in Table 2.20.
Waist circumference cut offs as a measure of central obesity
(adapted from NICE, 2013)
