Belly fat is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, study finds

Belly fat is linked to cardiovascular disease, a study has found.

Scientists have followed more than 250,000 people for 20 years and found that waist size can be a better predictor of heart disease risk than body mass index (BMI). The study looked at conditions such as heart attack, stroke and heart failure. Even if BMI is within normal limits, people with larger waists are at higher risk of heart disease.

Experts say that BMI does not indicate the amount of fat in the body or where it is stored. Fat, especially around the abdomen and internal organs, can increase blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

**What is the risk of high waist size?**

Women are considered high if their waist circumference is more than 89 centimeters and their waist-to-hip ratio is more than 0.85. For men, these limits are defined as approximately 102 centimeters and a waist-to-hip ratio of more than 0.90.

If your indicators are higher than these limits, it is recommended to consult a doctor to assess your risk of cardiovascular disease.

According to Tara Narula, this can also be done at home. To do this, use a tape measure without clothes or in thin clothing. Measure your waist at its widest or highest point, and your hips at its widest point. Then divide your waist measurement by your hips.

Experts note that the results of the study may be important in medical practice. Because by taking into account waist measurements, it may be easier to identify people with a higher or lower cardiovascular risk than estimated based on the TMI indicator.