IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MEDICAL EVALUATION AND PHYSICAL REPORT (IJMEPR )

E-ISSN 2579-0498
P-ISSN 2695-2181
VOL. 9 NO. 3 2025
DOI: 10.56201/ijmepr.v9.no3.2025.pg78.89

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Reference Value for Waist Circumference and Waist to Height Ratio Among Young Adults Aged 18 To 60 Years

Ojoawo Adesola Ojo PhD Appah Omojefe Henry

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Abstract

There is currently no established reference value for WHtR and WC as an indicator of metabolic and cardiovascular risk for the Nigerian young adult population despite their sensitivity. The study provided reference values for WC and WHtR among apparently healthy Nigerian adults aged 18 to 60 years. A sample size of 1201 participated in this study. Waist circumference was measured with a non-stretchable plastic tape, placed at the thinnest portion of the abdomen, midpoint between the lower margin of the last palpable rib and the top of the iliac crest. Weight and height were measured as well following standard protocol. Data was summarized using descriptive and inferential statistics with Alpha level set at 0.05. Results showed that the mean and 95th percentile values of waist to height ratio for male of ages 18 to 60 years of age were 0.48+ 0.02 and 0.60 respectively while that of female were 0.47+ 0.04 and 0.63 respectively. The mean and 95th percentile of waist circumference for male were 82.77 cm and 100.21 cm respectively while that of female were 83.00 cm and 96.07 cm respectively. There was a significant relationship between WHtR and each of age (r = 0.188, p<0.01), waist circumference, (r = 0.203, p<0.01), and BMI (r = 0.227, p<0.01).

keywords:

waist- circumference, waist to height ratio, workers, male, adult

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