Waistline

Waistline refers to the horizontal line where the waist is narrowest, or to the general region of the waist. It is a key measure in many health related applications including defining body shape and diagnosing obesity.

Definition

The waistline is typically defined as the circumference around the body from the narrowest point of the waist. This is usually just above the belly button, where the torso is smallest. The waistline is used as a simple measure of a person's body shape and size.

Health implications

The size of a person's waistline can have significant health implications. A larger waistline can indicate a higher amount of visceral fat, which is associated with a higher risk of conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. The World Health Organization (WHO) has specific guidelines for waistline measurements, stating that a waistline of 94 cm or more for men and 80 cm or more for women is associated with health risks.

Measurement

Measuring the waistline is a simple process that involves wrapping a tape measure around the waist at its narrowest point. This measurement is often used in conjunction with Body Mass Index (BMI) to provide a more comprehensive view of a person's health and body composition.

Fashion

In fashion, the waistline is an important factor in the design and fit of clothes. The placement of the waistline can dramatically change the overall look of a garment. High, natural, and low waistlines create different silhouettes and can be used to emphasize or de-emphasize certain body features.

See also

• Body shape
• Obesity
• Body Mass Index
• Fashion design