Waist-hip ratio, body mass index and risk of chronic medical condition in women aged 30 years and above: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT The present investigation was undertaken with the aim to study the prevalence and relationship of Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR) and Body Mass Index (BMI) with health risk and their associated socio-demographic correlates in the women. The data was collected from 120 women, aged 30 years and above with a mean age of 47.30 ± 13.20 years (range 30 to 88). The cross-sectional study conducted in 2019 among Sabratha residents. The participants were assessed with anthropometric measurements including height, weight, BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference and WHR. Respondents provided information on their socio-demographic details and health conditions. Prevalence of those who were obese, overweight, normal and underweight based on BMI was 40.0 %, 39.2 %, 18.3 % and 2.5 % respectively. Participants aged 45 years and above were more likely to be overweight and obese compared to those aged 30-44 years. Participants who were none educated were more likely to be overweight compared to complete educated. Participants who were overweight were less likely to have heart problems, while participants who were obese were more likely to have heart problems. Prevalence of those who were high, normal and low based on WHR was 65.8 %, 4.2 % and 30.0 % respectively. Participants aged 45 years and above were more likely to have high WHR compared to those aged 30-44 years. Participants who were overweight and those with a higher WHR were more likely to have heart problems. Keywords: WHR, BMI, Chronic Medical Conditions, Women.