What is the waist to hip ratio threshold for men that indicates an increased risk for coronary heart disease?

The waist to hip ratio (WHR) is a critical measurement used to assess the distribution of body fat and the associated health risks. In men, a WHR threshold of 0.95 or higher indicates an increased risk for coronary heart disease. This threshold is based on research linking abdominal obesity with cardiovascular conditions. The waist measurement relates to the amount of visceral fat, which can contribute to metabolic disorders and heart disease, while the hip measurement gives context to body shape and fat distribution.

A WHR of 0.95 signifies that the waist circumference is significantly larger in comparison to the hips, which is associated with a higher risk for adverse health outcomes related to heart disease. This measurement is an important tool for healthcare providers and fitness professionals to identify individuals who may be at a higher risk due to their body fat distribution.

Other thresholds mentioned, like 0.90 or 1.00, are references that can indicate increased risks in different contexts or populations, but for men specifically, 0.95 is the recognized threshold for increased risk.