Information regarding physical build and the resulting health risk can be derived from simple measurements. Height and weight can be used to calculate BMI (Body Mass Index) which is an extremely good indicator of excess weight. If a person has an athletic physique where the muscle mass is particularly high, an initial conclusion can be drawn regarding body fat mass.
By also measuring the circumference of the waist and hips differentiated information can be obtained regarding the distribution of body fat. An estimate of body fat distribution can be made on the basis of a visual assessment: if the circumference around the stomach (waist) is significantly greater than the circumference around the hips, the person has what is known as an 'apple shape', as opposed to a 'pear shape' where the circumference around the hips is greater than around the waist. The indicators of this are the WHR (Waist-Hip Ratio). Overweight people with an 'apple shape', for example, have an Increased risk as a result of excess weight and body fat compared with those with a 'pear shape' since a higher visceral fat mass is assumed.
Figure: Correlation between body mass and body fat risk
To support the individual efforts of preventive behaviour it is possible to set Goal values for the parameter Body Weight, BMI, WHR, Hip Circumference and Body Fat Mass.
The recording of BMI and THI is easily superior to all other measurements taken in terms of cost and significance for health.
To complete the statistics it is customary to measure the circumference of the thigh, which can be characterised by additional subcutaneous fatty tissue.
Increased risk as a result of excess weight and body fat