We examined the relationship between body fat distribution and glucose metabolism and sex hormones in Japanese premenopausal women born in 1948. 1. 1. There was a significant positive correlation shown between the waist circumference or skinfolds of the upper body, and the fasting insulin and C-peptide levels. 2. 2. A positive correlation was seen between W2-3 H, and both insulin (r = 0.29, 0.30, P < 0.05) and C-peptide levels (r = 0.40, 0.33, P < 0.01, 0.05). 3. 3. A significant negative correlation was seen between the SHBG level, and BMI (r = -0.39, p < 0.01), W3 H (r = -0.46, P, 0.01), insulin (r = -0.28, P < 0.05), and C-peptide (r = -0.46, P < 0.01). 4. 4. A significant negative correlation was seen between SHBG and W3 H (r = -0.31, P < 0.05) after adjustment for BMI. These results suggest that the association of body fat distribution and glucose metabolism and androgeneity even if taking account of BMI, exists in non-obese women. © 1990.