Apples and Pears
Research has shown that people with a lot of fat stored in their tummy area ("apple" shaped people) are more likely to develop heart disease than those who store fat round their bottom and thighs ("pears"). It is possible to have a high BMI and a normal waist measurement if you are a fit, lean, muscular man. This is why your waist to hip ratio is a better guide to your risk of heart disease.

The higher the ratio the greater the risk of heart disease and strokes.  

Current evidence is that a ratio less than 0.85 if you are a woman or 0.90 if you are a man is associated with a relatively low risk. If your ratio is greater than 1.00 you are at significant risk. This fact seems to apply whatever race you are according to research in The Lancet (Lancet 2005; 366: 1640–49)