Your Waist Girth Shows Your Health Risk Waist measurement is now believed to be a much more accurate measure of future health risk than BMI alone. Carrying too much fat around your middle is associated with an increased risk of developing heart disease and diabetes. It's also associated with a greater risk of high cholesterol levels which, in turn, increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
A waist circumference greater than 32 inches for women and 34 inches for men increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, for example, heart attacks, and stroke, and diabetes.
The greatest risk is for women with a waist measurement of more than 88 cm (35") and men with a waist measurement of more than 102 cm (40").
How do you measure up?
Measure your waist at the level of your navel (belly button) while you are relaxed. (Don't suck it in!) Then compare your results with the waist circumference standards. If necessary, lose weight, improve your diet, and become more physically active - and maintain these changes for a lifetime of better health.
Source: https://www.thewellnesscorner.com/Article/getfit/your-waist-girth-showsyour-health-risk