Waist-to-Height Ratio Calculator with NICE Bands
Waist-to-height ratio = waist ÷ height, in the same unit. NICE’s guideline treats 0.5 as the line: under 0.5 is the healthy side, 0.5 to 0.59 is increased and 0.6 or more is high. A 96.5 cm waist at 170 cm tall gives 0.57.
Calculate
Use the same unit for both, centimeters or inches.
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How it works
- Measure waist and height in the same unit.
- We divide and show the NICE band.
- Discuss it with your care team; it is one screening number among many.
The NICE bands
| Ratio | NICE term for central adiposity |
|---|---|
| 0.4 to 0.49 | Healthy |
| 0.5 to 0.59 | Increased |
| 0.6 or more | High |
NICE NG246 (2025). The bands apply to adults with a BMI under 35 kg/m². NICE gives no band below 0.4. It is UK guidance; US guidelines may differ.
Why it can be useful
Weight can sit in different places on the body, and fat around the middle carries more health risk than the same weight elsewhere. A ratio to height adjusts for body size, and NICE found its cut-off was around 0.5 across sexes and ethnicities. See also BMI, blood pressure and cholesterol ratios.
If you have a history of disordered eating, you may prefer to skip body measurements; talk to your care team about what is helpful for you.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate waist-to-height ratio?
Divide your waist measurement by your height, in the same unit. NICE gives the example 96.5 cm ÷ 170 cm = 0.57.
What is a healthy waist-to-height ratio?
NICE’s 2025 guideline defines healthy central adiposity as 0.4 to 0.49, increased as 0.5 to 0.59 and high as 0.6 or more, for adults with a BMI under 35. Its patient message is to keep your waist under half your height (a ratio under 0.5).
Does it work for every sex and ethnicity?
NICE says the classification is the same for all sexes and ethnicities, including adults with high muscle mass, as long as BMI is under 35.
Where do I measure my waist?
Follow the instructions of your clinician or a trusted source such as the NHS or CDC, and measure the same way each time. Measure with a soft tape over bare skin or light clothing, not tightened.
Does this give a weight goal?
No. It is a screening number to discuss with your care team. We do not set weight or calorie goals.
Information only, not medical advice. Your care team may set different targets for you, and only a lab test ordered by a clinician can diagnose diabetes or prediabetes. See our medical disclaimer.
Sources
Last reviewed: by the Diabetes Blogs editorial team. Information only, not medical advice.
