Final answer:
Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is a superior predictor of diabetes and CVD risk compared to waist circumference and BMI due to its focus on the distribution of visceral fat, which impacts health risks significantly.
Step-by-step explanation:
The waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is a more reliable predictor of diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk compared to waist circumference (WC) and body mass index (BMI). WHR is calculated by dividing the waist circumference by the hip circumference. This measurement takes into account the distribution of body fat, which is important as visceral fat — located in the abdominal cavity — has a more significant impact on health risks than total fat mass. Visceral fat releases hormones and inflammatory factors influencing chronic disease risk. Besides, lifestyle behaviors such as unhealthy diet, sedentary lifestyle, and the consumption of sugary beverages are key environmental risk factors that contribute to obesity and metabolic syndrome, major precursors to diabetes and CVD. Understanding these factors can lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for at-risk individuals.