Waist size is a powerful indicator of health risks, researchers find
Measuring waist size may be one of the simplest and most effective ways to detect obesity-related health risks, according to a study by Rutgers Health researchers.
Research from Rutgers Health suggests that measuring waist size can be an effective and simple method for detecting obesity-related health risks. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, found that waist circumference alone performed nearly as well as a more complex obesity definition that includes multiple body measurements. Lead author Aayush Visaria explained that waist measurement could serve as a practical tool for clinicians and patients to identify potentially unhealthy body fat and associated health risks.
Although clothing size may indicate excess body fat, a proper waist circumference measurement provides more accurate results. The study evaluated data from 1,900 U.S. adults and compared waist circumference with other methods for diagnosing obesity. Researchers concluded that BMI alone often missed individuals meeting body-fat criteria for obesity, highlighting the importance of waist measurement in routine health screening.
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