Final answer:
Waist circumference measurements are critical for estimating body composition as they offer an assessment of fat distribution, particularly around the waist, which is a strong indicator of health risks. Waist-to-hip ratios are more predictive of chronic diseases than BMI since they quantify abdominal obesity, which is associated with increased risk factors for various conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Measurements of waist circumference are significant for estimating body composition as they provide an insight into fat distribution, which is a crucial predictor of health risks. The waist-to-hip ratio, calculated by dividing the waist circumference by the hip circumference, is acknowledged as a better measurement than waist circumference alone. A higher waist-to-hip ratio indicates a greater amount of abdominal obesity, or central obesity, which is linked to an increased risk for chronic diseases such as heart attacks.
Visceral fat around the abdomen secretes hormones and inflammatory factors that contribute to disease risk. Measuring waist circumference is a simple method for assessing this risk. Men with a waist circumference greater than 40 inches and women greater than 35 inches are generally considered to face higher health risks.
Ultimately, waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio measurements act as accessible tools for health professionals to assess individual risk factors for obesity-related diseases and tailor health advice accordingly. They are preferable indicators of disease risk compared to overall weight or BMI, as these measurements do not account for fat distribution.