Who Benefits From Measuring Waist Circumference?
Waist circumference may be a better indicator of obesity-related diseases than BMI, especially among particular populations. The elderly, with less muscle mass, tend to have underestimated BMI values. Certain ethnic groups are genetically predisposed to storing more fat in the abdomen, even at healthy weights; these include non-Hispanic blacks, Mexican Americans, non-Hispanic whites, and people of Asian descent. Having a history of alcoholism, which can cause central obesity syndrome, is a good indicator that waist circumference should be measured. Finally, if you are physically active and have a lot of muscle mass, but your BMI is above 25, you should certainly measure your waist.
