What waist circumference indicates a risk factor for obesity in women?

A waist circumference greater than 88 cm is recognized as a significant risk factor for obesity in women. This threshold is important because it correlates highly with the likelihood of developing obesity-related health issues such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.

This measurement reflects abdominal fat accumulation, which is a key indicator of health risk, rather than relying solely on body mass index (BMI). Consequently, health professionals often use waist circumference as a simple and effective screening tool to identify individuals who may be at an increased risk due to excess fat in the abdominal area.

The other options do not correspond with the established guideline that defines high-risk waist circumference thresholds for women. A measurement less than 80 cm indicates a lower risk for obesity-related diseases, while exact figures like 94 cm and 82 cm do not align with the critical cutoff points suggested in health assessments.