UNDERSTAND THE METHOD
How to use this calculator
Measure the waist and proximal thigh at the stated sites. The female equation also uses BMI. The output is an area estimate in square centimetres. It is not a percentage or a direct image measurement.
What the result can tell you
These equations were developed mainly in adults of European descent aged 18–78. Their accuracy varies across populations. A tape estimate cannot diagnose visceral obesity. A negative equation output signals an unsuitable estimate and is not displayed as a physical area.
Common questions
What does the visceral-fat result measure?
It estimates visceral fat area in square centimetres from waist and proximal-thigh measurements. The female equation also uses BMI. The result is not a percentage or a direct image measurement.
Can a tape estimate diagnose visceral obesity?
No. The equations were developed mainly in adults of European descent aged 18–78, and accuracy varies across populations. A tape estimate is not a diagnosis.
Sources & limitations
Sources checked September 12, 2026. These notes identify methods and assumptions. They have not received an independent clinical review.
- Samouda anthropometric prediction equations for visceral adipose tissue.pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Context for the 130 cm² reference threshold.pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov