What waist circumference is used as a threshold for abdominal obesity in men?

• A. 35
• B. 40
• C. 30
• D. 45

Answer: (B)

Measuring waist circumference focuses on central fat, which better reflects visceral adiposity and related metabolic risk than overall weight. For men, the threshold used to define abdominal obesity is about forty inches (roughly one hundred two centimeters). Crossing this cutoff signals higher risk of insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease, and it’s a common criterion in metabolic syndrome assessments. When taking the measurement, use a nonstretchable tape at the level of the natural waist after a normal exhale, and ensure the tape is snug but not compressing the skin. For contrast, the corresponding female threshold is about thirty-five inches.