Which statement below best describes strengths or weaknesses of using waist circumference as a health indicator?

• A. Waist circumference is an inexpensive but accurate measure of body composition.
• B. Waist circumference is often used because it is inexpensive but is generally not a good indicator of health because it fails to measure subcutaneous fat content.
• C. Waist circumference is strongly correlated with BMI, so can be used in place of body mas index as an indicator of health when needed.
• D. Waist circumference can be a good indicator of central body mass, and when used with BMI, can be an accurate tool to assess health risks.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of waist circumference: Waist circumference is a measurement taken around the narrowest part of the torso, typically above the hip bones. It is often used as an indicator of central adiposity (fat stored around the abdomen).
2. Recognize the strengths of waist circumference: It is inexpensive, easy to measure, and provides a direct assessment of fat distribution, particularly central fat, which is associated with health risks such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
3. Identify the limitations of waist circumference: While it is a useful tool, it does not differentiate between subcutaneous fat (fat under the skin) and visceral fat (fat around internal organs). Additionally, it does not provide a complete picture of overall body composition.
4. Understand the relationship between waist circumference and BMI: Waist circumference complements BMI (Body Mass Index) by providing additional information about fat distribution. BMI alone does not account for where fat is stored, which is an important factor in assessing health risks.
5. Combine waist circumference with BMI for a more accurate assessment: Using both waist circumference and BMI together can provide a more comprehensive evaluation of health risks, as they address different aspects of body composition and fat distribution.