New Study Challenges BMI as Sole Health Risk Indicator, Emphasizes Waist Measurement
A new study published in July 2023 challenges the common use of Body Mass Index (BMI) as the sole indicator of health risk. Conducted by an international team, the research suggests that waist measurement is a more accurate predictor of heart attack risk, especially for women.
Led by Dr. Sanne Peters from the George Institute for Global Health, the study found that waist circumference is a better predictor of heart attack risk than BMI, particularly for women. BMI, which measures weight in relation to height, does not differentiate between fat and muscle mass, nor does it consider where fat is stored in the body. Abdominal fat, or visceral fat, is particularly harmful and is better measured by waist circumference.
The study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, recommends that healthcare providers should always measure waist circumference, especially for women. Even small amounts of weight loss can improve heart health, and adopting healthier habits such as changes to diet and exercise routines is crucial for those who are overweight.
The study, titled 'The association between waist circumference and risk of myocardial infarction in women is stronger than in men: a meta-analysis of prospective studies', highlights the importance of waist measurement as a health indicator, particularly for women. By considering both body size and shape, healthcare providers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's health risk.
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