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Waist circumference is a direct proxy for visceral fat and predicts cardiometabolic risk independently of BMI. The commonly used thresholds are 94 and 102 cm for European men and 80 and 88 cm for women, lowered to 90 and 100 cm for South and East Asian men because risk appears at lower absolute waist sizes.
European thresholds
men 94 cm increased, 102 cm high; women 80 cm and 88 cm
Asian thresholds
men 90 cm and 100 cm; women 80 cm and 88 cm
These figures are population-average estimates, not a medical assessment or diagnosis. Body composition equations carry errors of several percentage points, and healthy ranges vary with age, ethnicity, muscularity and medical history. Discuss weight or body composition goals with a qualified clinician or dietitian.
Because visceral fat accumulates at lower total body fat in South and East Asian populations, so metabolic risk appears at smaller waists.
For predicting metabolic risk, generally yes. Using both together is better than either alone.