1. Measuring hip circumference

2. Based on EHES Manual, Part B. Fieldwork Procedures, 2nd edition (2016)
Available at:
These slides can be used freely, translated and adapted to national use (e.g. concerning the equipment). However, it is important to keep in mind that no changes should be made to the measurement techniques, which need to be standardized.

3. Equipment Non-elastic measurement tapes (200 cm and 250 cm)
Full body mirror, if feasible

4. Quality assurance: Checking
Daily:
Check the condition of the measurement tape visually; if there are cracks or the tape is torn, it should be replaced
Monthly:
Check the length of the measurement tape by using calibrated length rods; if the measuring tape is stretched, it should be replaced
Record the results of checking in the survey log book

5. Exclusion criteria Hip circumference is not measured, if participant
is immobile or in a wheelchair and has severe difficulties in standing straight
is pregnant (over 20 weeks)
refuses

6. Clothing Take the measurement over underwear
Ask the participant to reveal the hip area, by lowering the pants or skirt and lifting the shirt
If the participant refuses or feels uncomfortable to reveal the hip area, take the measurement over light tightly fitting clothing

7. Posture Ask the participant to stand straight
a small gap between the legs
weight evenly balanced on both legs
arms hanging loosely beside the body

8. Hip measurement
Place the measuring tape over the buttock at the maximal circumference
Check the horizontal position of the measuring tape by
asking the participant to turn over
moving around the participant or
checking from the mirror (if available)

9. Hip measurement
Check that the measuring tape is not too tight or too loose
You should be able to place one finger between the tape and the participant’s body
Ask the participant to breathe normally

10. Record Measurement to the nearest millimetre
If the measurement was done over other clothing than underwear
Pregnancy weeks, if necessary
Reasons, if not measured
Only measured values, self reported values are not acceptable

11. Acknowledgements
Slides prepared by: Annamari Lundqvist, Hanna Tolonen, Päivikki Koponen
Photographs: Hanna Tolonen
Measurement demonstration by Liisa Saarikoski, Hanna Valtonen and voluntary participants
Experiences and feedback from the EHES network have been utilized in the preparation of these slides
Funding: Preparation of the slides is part of the activities of the EHES Coordinating Centre which has received funding from the EC/DG SANTÉ in through SANCO/2008/C2/02-SI EHES and Grand Agreement number , and in through Grand Agreement number /BRIDGE Health

12. Disclaimer
The views expressed here are those of the authors and they do not represent the Commission’s official position.