Central obesity, often referred to as abdominal obesity, is the accumulation of excess fat around the stomach and abdomen. It is a major component of metabolic syndrome and is considered more dangerous than fat accumulation in other areas of the body due to its association with various health risks.
What is central obesity
Central obesity, also known as abdominal or visceral obesity, is the excessive accumulation of fat around the stomach and abdomen. Unlike subcutaneous fat, which lies just under the skin, central obesity involves visceral fat that surrounds vital organs like the liver, pancreas, and intestines. This type of fat is particularly harmful as it is associated with metabolic disturbances, including insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. Central obesity is often measured by waist circumference or the waist-to-hip ratio. Factors contributing to central obesity include genetics, poor diet, physical inactivity, stress, and hormonal changes, making lifestyle modifications essential for management.
Central obesity in females
Central obesity, characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the abdominal area, is a significant health concern for females. This visceral fat is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Factors contributing to central obesity include hormonal changes, particularly during menopause, sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary habits, and genetic predisposition. Stress and sleep deprivation may also exacerbate fat deposition in the abdomen. Measuring waist circumference or the waist-to-hip ratio helps assess central obesity. Effective management involves regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in fiber and low in refined sugars, stress reduction, and adequate sleep.
Health Risks Associated with Central Obesity
- Cardiovascular Disease: Central obesity is strongly linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke due to factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and inflammation.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Excess abdominal fat can lead to insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes.
- Hypertension: Abdominal fat contributes to higher blood pressure levels.
- Dyslipidemia: It is associated with unhealthy levels of lipids in the blood, including high triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol.
- Certain Cancers: There is evidence linking central obesity to a higher risk of certain cancers, including breast, colon, and pancreatic cancers.
- Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Excess abdominal fat can lead to fat buildup in the liver, causing NAFLD.
- Sleep Apnea: Obesity, particularly central obesity, increases the risk of sleep apnea and other breathing problems during sleep.
Why does cushing’s cause central obesity
- Genetics: Genetic factors can predispose individuals to accumulate fat in the abdominal area.
- Diet: A high intake of processed foods, sugary beverages, and high-fat diets can contribute to central obesity.
- Physical Inactivity: Lack of regular physical activity can lead to weight gain and fat accumulation in the abdomen.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly in cortisol and insulin levels, can influence fat distribution.
- Age: As people age, muscle mass tends to decrease and fat tends to increase, particularly in the abdominal area.
- Stress: Chronic stress can lead to increased cortisol production, promoting fat storage in the abdominal region.
Measuring central obesity
- Waist Circumference: A waist circumference greater than 40 inches (102 cm) in men and 35 inches (88 cm) in women is generally considered indicative of central obesity.
- Waist-to-Hip Ratio: A ratio above 0.90 for men and 0.85 for women suggests central obesity.
- Body Mass Index (BMI): While BMI is a general measure of body fat, it doesn’t distinguish between central and peripheral obesity.
Central obesity in cushing’s syndrome