Abdominal obesity and risk of CVD: a dose-response meta-analysis of thirty-one prospective studies

Association of weight-adjusted waist index with hyperuricemia and gout among middle-aged and older adults in America: a cross-sectional analysis of NHANES 2007-2014

OBJECTIVES

The weight-adjusted waist circumference index (WWI), a novel obesity indicator, gives better accuracy in assessing both muscle and fat mass. Our goal was to evaluate the relationship between WWI and the occurrence of hyperuricemia/gout among middle-aged and older adults in America.

METHODS

We analyzed the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data from the 2007-2014 cycles. Logistic regression analyses, subgroup analyses, and restricted cubic splines (RCS) were performed to evaluate the association between WWI and hyperuricemia/gout prevalence.

RESULTS

A total of 5332 adults aged 50 years and above were included in this study. The prevalence of hyperuricemia and gout was 23.20% and 6.70% respectively. The fourth quartile of WWI was associated with a 56% higher risk for hyperuricemia, compared with the first quartile (OR = 1.56, 95% CI 1.07-2.27, P trend < 0.001). A similar association was found between continuous WWI increase and OR of hyperuricemia in the fully adjusted model (OR = 1.35, 95% CI = 1.13-1.61, P < 0.05). However, WWI was not significantly associated with the prevalence of gout. The RCS model suggested a significant linear relationship between WWI and the risk of hyperuricemia/gout. Stratification analysis showed that the positive associations of WWI with the risk of hyperuricemia were more pronounced in participants who were women, aged 50-59, smokers, no physical activity, non-diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest a positive correlation between WWI and hyperuricemia among middle-aged and older adults in America. Employing WWI as a tool for hyperuricemia prevention may be meaningful. Key Points • Weight-adjusted waist circumference index is a new obesity evaluation index. • Weight-adjusted waist circumference index is associated with hyperuricemia not gout. • The association is more pronounced in participants who were women, aged 50-59, smokers, no physical activity, non-diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia.

Associations between novel anthropometric indices and the prevalence of gallstones among 6,848 adults: a cross-sectional study

Background

Traditional anthropometric measures, including body mass index (BMI), are insufficient for evaluating gallstone risk. This study investigated the association between novel anthropometric indices and gallstone risk among 6,848 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey in the United States.

Methods

Measures calculated included weight (WT), BMI, waist circumference (WC), waist-to-height ratio (WtHR), conicity index (CI), A Body Shape Index (ABSI), Body Roundness Index (BRI), Abdominal Volume Index (AVI), and Weight-adjusted Waist Index (WWI). Logistic regression and smooth curve fitting assessed the relationships between these indices and gallstones, complemented by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to evaluate their discriminative power.

Results

The results indicated significant differences between study groups, with a positive and independent correlation identified between gallstones and all measures except ABSI. Specifically, per 1 SD increase in WC, WT, BMI, WtHR, and AVI was associated with a 57%, 59%, 52%, 53%, and 53% increased risk of gallstones, respectively. Dose-response analysis confirmed a positive correlation between these indices and gallstone risk. ROC analysis highlighted WtHR and BRI as having superior discriminative abilities (AUC = 0.6703). Further, among participants with a BMI < 30 kg/m2, elevated levels of WT, WtHR, CI, BRI, and WWI significantly increased the risk of gallstones (P < 0.001). Likewise, elevated BMI heightened the risk at low levels of WT, WC, WtHR, BRI, AVI, and CI (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study supports the positive association between various anthropometric indicators and gallstones, recommending that newer anthropometric indices be considered more extensively to enhance gallstone prevention and treatment strategies.

The association between the visceral to subcutaneous abdominal fat ratio and the risk of cardiovascular diseases: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the primary cause of mortality globally. The prevalence of obesity is rising worldwide; there seems to be a significant positive association between obesity and CVDs. The distribution of fat in the abdominal area in the form of visceral (VAT) or subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) affects the risk of CVDs. The aim of the present study was to conduct a systematic review of the available literature regarding the association between the VAT-to-SAT ratio and CVDs.

METHODS

A comprehensive search strategy was used to retrieve all human observational studies indexed in PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases/search engines (from Jan 2000 up to Oct 2023). The VAT-to-SAT or SAT-to-VAT ratio was an independent variable and various cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease and heart failure, were considered as outcomes of interest.

RESULTS

Out of 1173 initial studies, 910 papers were screened. Based on the inclusion criteria, 883 papers were excluded. Finally, 27 papers (18 cross-sectional and 9 cohort studies) published between 2010 and 2023 which met the inclusion criteria were reviewed.

CONCLUSIONS

The distribution of abdominal fat seems to be associated with the risk of CVDs; the majority of the evidence suggests that a higher abdominal VAT-to-SAT ratio is associated with the development of CVDs. Therefore, this ratio can be used as a prognostic indicator for CVDs.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Not applicable.

Waist-to-height ratio and body fat percentage as risk factors for ischemic cardiovascular disease: a prospective cohort study from UK Biobank

BACKGROUND

The independent effect of waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and body fat percentage (BF%) on ischemic cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains uncertain.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate the independent associations of WHtR and BF% with ischemic CVD.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study used data from the UK Biobank. BF% was calculated as fat mass divided by body weight, measured by bioimpedance. Cox models estimated hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for overall and sex-specific associations of BF% and WHtR with risks of ischemic CVD and its main subtypes [myocardial infarction (MI) and ischemic stroke (IS)], adjusted for a range of potential confounders, including mutual adjustment for BF% and WHtR.

RESULTS

In total, 468,333 participants without existing CVD were included in the analysis. During 12 y of follow-up, 20,151 ischemic CVD events, 13,604 MIs, and 6681 ISs were recorded. WHtR was linearly associated with ischemic CVD, MI, and IS, with an HR per 5% increase of 1.23 (95% CI: 1.20, 1.25), 1.24 (95% CI: 1.21, 1.27), and 1.22 (95% CI: 1.18, 1.26), respectively, independent of BF%. A stronger association between WHtR and MI was seen in females than in males. The association of BF% with these outcomes was substantially attenuated in both sexes after adjustment for WHtR. For example, in females, the HR (highest compared with lowest fifth) was reduced from 1.94 (95% CI: 1.76, 2.15) to 1.04 (95% CI: 0.90, 1.01) for ischemic CVD, from 2.04 (95% CI: 1.79, 2.32) to 0.97 (95% CI: 0.81, 1.16) for MI, and from 1.81 (95% CI: 1.54, 2.13) to 1.07 (95% CI: 0.85, 1.33) for IS.

CONCLUSIONS

WHtR, when used as a proxy measure for central obesity, is linearly associated with ischemic CVD in both sexes, which is independent of BF%. In contrast, the relationship of BF% with these health outcomes is predominantly driven by its correlation with WHtR.

The psychological well-being index and quality of life after a cardiac rehabilitation program based on aerobic training and psychosocial support

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the physical and psychological benefits of an alternative cardiac rehabilitation program based on therapeutic groups during physical exercise sessions and to compare the results with those of a conventional cardiac rehabilitation program.

METHOD

The sample included 112 patients from the cardiac rehabilitation unit of a medical center, 91.1 % of whom were male. The control group consisted of 47 subjects, with a mean age of 57.89 ± 12.30 and the experimental group consisted of 65 subjects, with a mean age of M = 58.38 ± 9.86. Quality of life, psychological well-being, health-related quality of life, body mass index, blood pressure, abdominal circumference and resting heart rate were measured before starting and at the end of the cardiac rehabilitation program.

RESULTS

The experimental group improved significantly more than the control group in body mass index, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, abdominal circumference, and resting heart rate (p value < 0.005). In addition, the experimental group had significantly greater improvements in quality of life, psychological well-being, and health-related quality of life than the control group (p-value < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

A cardiac rehabilitation program based on simultaneous aerobic training and psychosocial support improved the physical function, health-related quality of life and well-being.

Association of body mass index and waist circumference with long-term mortality risk in 10,370 coronary patients and potential modification by lifestyle and health determinants

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Body adiposity is known to affect mortality risk in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). We examined associations of body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) with long term mortality in Dutch CAD patients, and potential and effect modification of these associations by lifestyle and health determinants.

METHODS

10,370 CAD patients (mean age ∼65 y; 20% female; >80% on cardiovascular drugs) from the prospective Alpha Omega Cohort and Utrecht Cardiovascular Cohort-Secondary Manifestations of ARTerial disease study were included. Cox models were used to estimate categorical and continuous associations (using restricted cubic splines) of measured BMI and WC with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality risk, adjusting for age, sex, smoking, alcohol, physical activity and educational level. Analyses were repeated in subgroups of lifestyle factors (smoking, physical activity, diet quality), education and health determinants (diabetes, self-rated health).

RESULTS

During ∼10 years of follow-up (91,947 person-years), 3,553 deaths occurred, including 1,620 from cardiovascular disease. U-shaped relationships were found for BMI and mortality risk, with the lowest risk for overweight patients (BMI ∼27 kg/m2). For obesity (BMI ≥30), the HR for all-cause mortality was 1.31 (95% CI: 1.11, 1.41) in male patients and 1.10 (95% CI: 0.92, 1.30) in female patients, compared to BMI 25-30 kg/m2. WC was also non-linearly associated with mortality, and HRs were 1.18 (95%CI:1.06, 1.30) in males and 1.31 (95%CI:1.05, 1.64) in females for the highest vs. middle category of WC. Results for cardiovascular mortality were mostly in line with the results for all-cause mortality. U-shaped associations were found in most subgroups, associations were moderately modified by physical activity, smoking and educational level.

CONCLUSIONS

CAD patients with obesity and a large WC were at increased risk of long-term CVD and all-cause mortality, while mildly overweight patients had the lowest risk. These associations were consistent across subgroups of patients with different lifestyles and health status.

Investigating the mediating role of food involvement in the relationship between eating restrictions, nutritional knowledge, and dietary patterns in adults

People's Dietary Patterns (DPs) are influenced by culture and ethnicity, and their identification requires a holistic assessment of diet. DP reflects dietary behaviors, and its analysis may provide further details about the dietary etiology of chronic diseases. By examining people's DP and related factors, more practical solutions can be proposed to prevent overweight, obesity, and related diseases. This study aimed to describe DP, Eating Restrictions (ER), Food Involvement (FI), Nutrition Knowledge (NK), and anthropometric indices in Iranian adults and determine the mediating role of FI in the relationship between ER, NK, and DP. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using the structural equation modeling approach. The study was conducted on 2421 adults in Mazandaran Province, northern Iran. The Eating Restrictions Questionnaire (ERQ), the Food Involvement Inventory (FII), the komPAN questionnaire, and a demographic characteristics and anthropometric indices questionnaire were used to collect data. We also measured the seven major food groups, the Diet Quality Scores (DQS), and the six dietary indices, including the pro-Healthy-Diet-Index (pHDI-15), non-Healthy Diet-Index (nHDI-16), high-Glycemic-Diet-Index-7 (hGIDI-7), low-Glycaemic-Diet-Index-4 (lGIDI-4), high-Sugar-Diet-Index-4 (hSDI-4), and high-sugar product (hSFDI-6) and compared their values by gender and four BMI groups. The prevalence of ER and FI was 6.25% and 49.1%, respectively. NK was insufficient for 43.1% of the participants. Most participants (71.2%) had low DQS scores on pHDI-15 and moderate scores (52.9%) on nHDI-16. DQS scores were low in 64.8% of participants in the lGIDI-4 food group, while 71.7%, 92.6%, and 77.2% possessed moderate scores in the hGIDI-7, hSFDI-6, and hSDI-4 food groups, respectively. The mean pHDI-15 and lGIDI-4 indices were higher in women than in men. The amount of unhealthy food indices (nHDI-16, hGIDI-7, hSDI-4, and hSFDI-6) was higher in lean, overweight, and obese people than in people with a normal BMI. The structural model assumed between ER and DP and the mediating role of FI fit well with Iranian adults. Moreover, FI had a mediating role in the relationship between NK and pHDI_15 (Indirect Effects = 0.05, P<0.05) and nHDI_16 (Indirect Effects = -0.07, P<0.01). Most participants are small portions of the healthy food groups and the low glycemic foods, and FI plays a mediating role in the relationship between NK and ER with DP. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to the role of FI as a mediating variable in interventions based on reducing ER, increasing NK, and shifting DP from unhealthy to healthy.

Association of obesity with cardiovascular disease in the absence of traditional risk factors

BACKGROUND

The association between obesity and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in people without traditional CVD risk factors is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association of obesity with CVD and its subtypes in people without traditional CVD risk factors.

METHODS

Based on the Kailuan cohort study, the included participants were divided into different groups according to levels of body mass index (BMI) and waist height ratio (WHtR), respectively. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate the associations.

RESULTS

This study included 31,955 participants [men 63.99%; mean age (48.14 ± 3.33) years]. During a median follow-up period of 12.97 (interquartile range: 12.68-13.17) years, 1298 cases of CVD were observed. Compared with the normal BMI group, the hazard ratios (HRs) for CVD, stroke, and myocardial infarction (MI) in the BMI obese group were 1.31 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.11-1.55), 1.21 (95%CI 1.01-1.46), 1.62 (95%CI 1.13-2.33), respectively. Compared with the WHtR non-obese group, the HRs for CVD, stroke, and MI in the obese group were 1.25(95%CI 1.11-1.41), 1.18 (95%CI 1.03-1.34), 1.57 (95%CI 1.18-2.09), respectively. There was an interaction between age and WHtR (P for interaction was 0.043). The association between WHtR and CVD was stronger in people under 60 years old, with a HR of 1.44 (95%CI 1.24-1.67).

CONCLUSION

We found that obesity increased the risk of CVD in people without traditional CVD risk factors. The association of WHtR with CVD was stronger in people under 60 years old.

Increased body weight and central adiposity markers are positively associated with the 20-year incidence of cardiovascular disease: The ATTICA epidemiological study (2002-2022)

Increased adiposity predisposes to cardiovascular disease (CVD). We hypothesized that the presence of obesity would be positively associated with CVD risk, and that the co-presence of central obesity would modify/enhance this association. This was a prospective study (2002-2022) among 1845 Greek adults (mean age, 44.8 ± 13.5 years; men, 49.8%). At baseline, the presence of overweight/obesity was assessed via body mass index (BMI), whereas central obesity was defined as waist circumference ≥102/88 cm, waist-to-hip-ratio ≥0.95/0.80, or waist-to-height-ratio ≥0.50 in men/women. BMI was reevaluated at 10 years and longitudinal BMI trajectories (2002-2012) were identified. CVD incidence was recorded at 20 years (ratio of new cases to the number of participants assessed). Compared with participants with normal weight at baseline, those with obesity exhibited a 27% higher 20-year CVD risk after adjustment for age, sex, lifestyle habits, and medical status (hazard ratio, 1.271; 95% confidence interval, 1.012-1.597). In similar multiadjusted models, compared with participants who were always non-overweight/obese, those who were always overweight/obese exhibited a 40% higher 20-year CVD risk (hazard ratio, 1.403; 95% confidence interval, 1.018-1.936). Additional control for high-sensitivity C-reactive protein attenuated the associations. In the combined baseline body weight classification analysis, CVD incidence was the lowest in participants with normal weight without central obesity, moderate in those with overweight/obesity without central obesity, and highest in those with normal weight and central obesity and overweight/obesity and central obesity (P < .001). Obesity leads to increased CVD risk, partly mediated by inflammation. The combination of BMI with simple measures of abdominal adiposity is superior for CVD risk screening.

Effects of Intermittent Energy Restriction Compared with Those of Continuous Energy Restriction on Body Composition and Cardiometabolic Risk Markers - A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials in Adults

The interest in intermittent energy restriction (IER) diets as a weight-loss approach is increasing. Different IER protocols exist, including time-restricted eating (TRE), alternate-day fasting (ADF), and the 5:2 diet. This meta-analysis compared the effects of these IER diets with continuous energy restriction (CER) on anthropometrics and cardiometabolic risk markers in healthy adults. Twenty-eight trials were identified that studied TRE (k = 7), ADF (k = 10), or the 5:2 diet (k = 11) for 2-52 wk. Energy intakes between intervention groups within a study were comparable (17 trials), lower in IER (5 trials), or not reported (6 trials). Weighted mean differences (WMDs) were calculated using fixed- or random-effects models. Changes in body weight [WMD: -0.42 kg; 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.96 to 0.13; P = 0.132] and fat mass (FM) (WMD: -0.31 kg; 95% CI: -0.98 to 0.36; P = 0.362) were comparable when results of the 3 IER diets were combined and compared with those of CER. All IER diets combined reduced fat-free mass (WMD: -0.20 kg; 95% CI: -0.39 to -0.01; P = 0.044) and waist circumference (WMD: -0.91 cm; 95% CI: -1.76 to -0.06; P = 0.036) more than CER. Effects on body mass index [BMI (kg/m2)], glucose, insulin, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), serum lipid and lipoprotein concentrations, and blood pressure did not differ. Further, TRE reduced body weight, FM, and fat-free mass more than CER, whereas ADF improved HOMA-IR more. BMI was reduced less in the 5:2 diet compared with CER. In conclusion, the 3 IER diets combined did not lead to superior improvements in anthropometrics and cardiometabolic risk markers compared with CER diets. Slightly greater reductions were, however, observed in fat-free mass and waist circumference. To what extent differences in energy intakes between groups within studies may have influenced these outcomes should be addressed in future studies.

Body roundness index improves the predictive value of cardiovascular disease risk in hypertensive patients with obstructive sleep apnea: a cohort study

BACKGROUND

Obesity, especially visceral obesity, plays an important role in the progression of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The body roundness index (BRI) is a new measure of obesity that is considered to reflect visceral obesity more comprehensively than other measures. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between BRI and CVD risk in hypertensive patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and explore its superiority in predicting CVD.

METHODS

The Cox proportional hazards model was used to calculate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for incident CVD. The area under the curve (AUC), continuous net reclassification improvement (NRI), and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) were used to assess which measures of obesity had the best predictive value for CVD risk.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up period of 6.8 years, 324 participants suffered a CVD event. After multivariable adjustment, compared with the reference group (the first tertile), the HRs (95% CI) of CVD were 1.25 (95% CI, 0.93-1.70) and 1.74 (95% CI, 1.30-2.33) for subjects in the tertile 2 and tertile 3 groups, respectively. Compared with other measurement indicators, BRI has the highest predictive value for CVD risk [AUC: 0.627, 95% CI: 0.593-0.661]. The addition of the BRI to the fully adjusted multivariate model improved the predictive power for CVD, which was validated in the continuous NRI and the IDI (all P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

BRI was significantly associated with the risk of CVD in hypertensive patients with OSA. Furthermore, BRI may improve CVD risk prediction in hypertensive patients with OSA.

Relationship between weight-adjusted waist circumference index and prevalence of gallstones in U.S. adults: a study based on the NHANES 2017-2020

Objective

We aimed to assess the association between weight-adjusted waist circumference index (WWI) and gallstone prevalence in US adults.

Methods

We selected individuals from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database from 2017 to 2020 and used logistic regression analyses, subgroup analyses, and dose-response curves to assess the association between WWI and gallbladder stone prevalence and age, sex, and ethnicity.

Results

A total of 7971 participants aged ≥20 years were enrolled in our study; 828 patients had a self-reported history of gallstones. After correcting for confounders, for each unit of WWI after Ln conversion, the prevalence of gallbladder stones increased by 34% (OR=1.34, 95% CI:1.20, 1.50). Dose-response curves showed a positive correlation between WWI and gallbladder stone prevalence.According to the subgroup analysis, the positive association between TyG index and high-frequency HI was more significant in males(OR=1.34, 95% CI:1.07, 1.69), <40 years old(OR=1.42, 95% CI:1.18, 1.71), white people Americans(OR=1.35, 95% CI:1.08, 1.68) and other races(OR= 1.56, 95% CI:1.13, 2.14).

Conclusion

Higher WWI was positively associated with the prevalence of gallbladder stones and was associated with gender, age, and ethnicity. This is noteworthy, although a causal relationship could not be established.

Impact of diabesity phenotype on cardiovascular diseases, major cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality

To investigate the longitudinal association of different phenotypes of diabetes and obesity with the incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD), CVD- and all-cause mortality. A total of 5432 adults, aged ≥ 35 years and free of CVD were included in this cohort study. Diabesity phenotypes were defined in six categories based on the presence of diabetes (normal (NG), prediabetes and diabetes) and obesity (obese, non-obese). Fasting blood sugar, 2-h post prandial glucose, or using anti-diabetic medicines were used to define diabetes, and body mass index and waist circumference were used to define obesity. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for incident CVD, CVD- and all-cause mortality across these categories. After a median follow-up of 11.25 years, 819 CVD cases, 181 CVD deaths and 488 all-cause deaths occurred. In multivariable-adjusted models and irrespective of obesity definition, the phenotypes of normal glucose-obese, prediabetes-obese and pre-diabetes-non obese were not associated with CVD incidence in comparison with NG-non obese phenotype, however, the phenotypes of diabesity, either defined by general or abdominal obesity, were associated with increased risk of incident CVD events (HR = 1.42, 95% CI 1.01, 1.99, and HR = 1.46, 95% CI 1.07, 1.98, respectively). These findings were sex-specific and only in men with a phenotype of abdominal obesity-diabetes, a positive link was observed for CVD incidence (HR = 1.60, 95% CI 1.01, 2.52). No significant association was found between diabesity and death from CVD or all causes. Diabesity is a predictor of CVD and stroke incidence, but not CVD or all-cause mortality, among Iranians. This association is more pronounced amongst men than women.

Assessment of obesity

Obesity is a chronic, progressive and relapsing disease, characterised by the presence of abnormal or excess adiposity that impairs health and social wellbeing. It is associated with obesity-related disease complications, health inequalities and premature death. Clinical evaluation of obesity requires a thorough history and examination. Assessment should focus not only on anthropometric measurements, but also on the mental, metabolic, mechanical and monetary impact of adiposity, including multiple health conditions. Increased awareness and knowledge will help reduce weight stigma and biases. A focused non-judgemental assessment will help guide further investigations, timely referral and management.

Factors Associated with Normal-Weight Abdominal Obesity Phenotype in a Representative Sample of the Peruvian Population: A 4-Year Pooled Cross-Sectional Study

To examine factors associated with abdominal obesity among normal-weight individuals from the Demographic and Health Survey of Peru (2018-2021). Cross-sectional analytical study. The outcome variable was abdominal obesity defined according to JIS criteria. Crude (cPR) and adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) were estimated for the association between sociodemographic and health-related variables and abdominal obesity using the GLM Poisson distribution with robust variance estimates. A total of 32,109 subjects were included. The prevalence of abdominal obesity was 26.7%. The multivariate analysis showed a statistically significant association between abdominal obesity and female sex (aPR: 11.16; 95% CI 10.43-11.94); categorized age 35 to 59 (aPR: 1.71; 95% CI 1.65-1.78); 60 to 69 (aPR: 1.91; 95% CI 1.81-2.02); and 70 or older(aPR: 1.99; 95% CI 1.87-2.10); survey year 2019 (aPR: 1.22; 95% CI 1.15-1.28); 2020 (aPR: 1.17; 95% CI 1.11-1.24); and 2021 (aPR: 1.12; 95% CI 1.06-1.18); living in Andean region (aPR: 0.91; 95% CI 0.86-0.95); wealth index poor (aPR: 1.26; 95% CI 1.18-1.35); middle (aPR: 1.17; 95% CI 1.08-1.26); rich (aPR: 1.26; 95% CI 1.17-1.36); and richest (aPR: 1.25; 95% CI 1.16-1.36); depressive symptoms (aPR: 0.95; 95% CI 0.92-0.98); history of hypertension (aPR: 1.08; 95% CI 1.03-1.13), type 2 diabetes (aPR: 1.13; 95% CI 1.07-1.20); and fruit intake 3 or more servings/day (aPR: 0.92; 95% CI 0.89-0.96). Female sex, older ages, and low and high income levels increased the prevalence ratio for abdominal obesity, while depressive symptoms, living in the Andean region, and fruit intake of 3 or more servings/day decreased it.

Association of abdominal obesity and systolic blood pressure indices with cardiovascular disease risk prediction among community-dwelling older adults

<b>Background:</b> Excess adiposity is an established risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), therefore the early screening indies with predicted CVD risk is more useful for older adults. The current study evaluated the associations between anthropometric, body composition and dietary indices and elevated 10-year CVD risk in older people.<br /> <b>Methods:</b> This research, which involved 55 to 94-year-olds living in the community. Standard techniques were used to determine anthropometric factors and body composition indicators. The risk prediction chart created by World Health Organization and International Society of Hypertension was used to calculate the CVD risk score. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were determined.<br /> <b>Results:</b> CVD risk prediction was positively correlated with the anthropometric and body composition parameters. After controlling for confounding variables, the logistic regression analysis revealed that waist circumference (OR=16.34; 95% CI: 7.22, 36.98; <i>p</i>&lt;0.001), systolic blood pressure (BP) (OR=9.53; 95% CI: 4.52, 20.07; <i>p</i>&lt;0.001), and visceral adipose tissue percentage (OR=5.47; 95% CI: 2.98, 10.01; <i>p</i>&lt;0.001) were correlated with cardiovascular risk prediction.<br /> <b>Conclusions:</b> Abdominal obesity and increase of systolic BP were associated to increased risk for CVD. Additionally, a positive association between the risk factors for CVD (%visceral adipose tissue) and diet (cholesterol consumption) was established.

Is dynapenic abdominal obesity a risk factor for cardiovascular mortality? A competing risk analysis

BACKGROUND

Dynapenic abdominal obesity has been shown as a risk factor for all-cause mortality in older adults. However, there is no evidence on the association between this condition and cardiovascular mortality.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate whether dynapenic abdominal obesity is associated with cardiovascular mortality in individuals aged 50 and older.

METHODS

A longitudinal study with an 8-year follow-up was conducted involving 7,030 participants of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing study. Abdominal obesity and dynapenia were respectively defined based on waist circumference (> 102 cm for men and > 88 cm for women) and grip strength (< 26 kg for men and < 16 kg for women). The sample was divided into four groups: non-dynapenic/non-abdominal obesity (ND/NAO), non-dynapenic/abdominal obesity (ND/AO), dynapenic/non-abdominal obesity (D/NAO) and dynapenic/abdominal obesity (D/AO). The outcome was cardiovascular mortality. The Fine-Grey regression model was used to estimate the risk of cardiovascular mortality as a function of abdominal obesity and dynapenia status in the presence of competing events controlled by socio-demographic, behavioural and clinical variables.

RESULTS

The risk of cardiovascular mortality was significantly higher in individuals with D/AO compared with ND/NAO (SHR 1.85; 95% CI: 1.15-2.97). D/NAO was also associated with cardiovascular mortality (SHR: 1.62; 95% CI: 1.08-2.44).

CONCLUSION

Dynapenic abdominal obesity is associated with cardiovascular mortality, with a larger effect size compared to dynapenia alone in individuals older than 50 years. Thus, prevention strategies and clinical interventions that enable mitigating the harmful effects of these conditions should be adopted to diminish such risk.

Dynapenic Abdominal Obesity and Risk of Heart Disease among Middle-Aged and Older Adults: A Prospective Cohort Study

OBJECTIVES

The vicious cycle of dynapenia and abdominal obesity may have synergistic detrimental impacts on health. We aim to investigate the prospective association between dynapenic abdominal obesity and the risk of heart disease among middle-aged and older adults.

DESIGN

A prospective cohort study.

SETTING

English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, 2002-2019.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 4734 participants aged 50 years and older were included.

MEASUREMENTS

Individuals were divided into non-dynapenia/non-abdominal obesity (ND/NAO), non-dynapenia/abdominal obesity (ND/AO), dynapenia/non-abdominal obesity (D/NAO), and dynapenia/abdominal obesity (D/AO) according to grip strength and waist circumference at baseline. The Cox proportional hazards models were used to obtain the hazard ratios (HRs) of incident heart disease associated with dynapenia and abdominal obesity after adjusting for potential confounding factors.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 9.5 years, 1040 cases of heart disease were recorded. Compared with ND/NAO group, the multivariable HRs were 1.05 (0.92, 1.21) for ND/AO group, 1.31 (0.96, 1.81) for D/NAO group, and 1.39 (1.03, 1.88) for D/AO group. The significant association of D/AO with incident heart disease was detected in women but not in men [HR = 1.55 (1.07, 2.24) and 1.06 (0.60, 1.88), respectively]. Among middle-aged adults, significant associations of D/NAO and D/AO with incident heart disease were observed [HR = 2.46 (1.42, 4.29) and 1.74 (1.02, 2.97), respectively].

CONCLUSION

Both D/NAO and D/AO might increase the risk of developing heart disease, highlighting the importance of dynapenia and obesity early screening for heart disease prevention.

Obesity in Caucasian Seniors on the Rise: Is It Truly Harmful? Results of the PolSenior2 Study

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of morbidity and mortality; however, data suggest that in old age, obesity is not detrimental. The study’s objective was to verify whether obesity frequency still increases in Polish Caucasian seniors and to verify the “obesity paradox”. Five thousand and fifty-seven community-dwelling individuals aged ≥ 65 years completed a detailed medical questionnaire, underwent measurements of the body mass index (BMI) and the waist circumference (WC), and an evaluation of physical and cognitive performances. Over a decade, general obesity increased by 2.1%, mostly due to a 3.9% increase in men. Abdominal obesity increased by 1.0%, mainly due to males, in whom it increased by 3.9%. Obesity increased the risk of several aging-related diseases, but this effect was less pronounced in the oldest-old. Obesity did not adversely affect the physical and cognitive functioning or mortality. Through a multivariable analysis, the BMI and WC remained the independent predictors of the Katz Activities of Daily Living score (p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively) and Mini-Mental State Examination score (both p < 0.001). The Kaplan−Meier survival curves revealed that overweight and obesity classes 1 and 2 were associated with the lowest mortality. Through a multivariable analysis, overweight, class 1 obesity, and abdominal obesity remained the independent predictors of a decreased mortality (all p < 0.001). In conclusion, we found that overweight and obesity are not detrimental in seniors, including the oldest-old. We suggest that the anthropometric values defining obesity should be modified for age-advanced people.

The Relationship between Health-Related Fitness and Quality of Life in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

BACKGROUND

It is well known that patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) suffer from impaired quality of life (QoL) and decreased health-related fitness. Studies on the relationship between them have been scarce.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was performed in 104 NAFLD patients. Liver fat content and fibrosis were assessed using transient elastography. Health-related fitness was measured by fitness test. VO₂max was determined by YMCA submaximal cycle ergometer test. Body composition was tested by bioimpedance analysis. QoL was evaluated using the 36-item Short Form Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36).

RESULTS

Most patients had severe liver steatosis without significant fibrosis. Most of them exhibited poor health-related fitness. Multiple linear regression analyses demonstrated that body compositions (waist circumference, hip circumference, percent body fat, percent skeletal muscle, visceral fat area) dependently contributed to QoL (health transition, role limitation due to physical problem, general health, physical functioning and vitality). VO₂max was positively related with physical functioning.

CONCLUSION

For NAFLD patients, decreased health-related fitness was associated with impaired QoL both in the physical and mental dimension. Our results indicate that visceral fat together with muscle mass and VO₂max could serve as individual exercise intervention targets to improve QoL.

Metabolically unhealthy phenotype in normal weight population and risk of mortality and major adverse cardiac events: A meta-analysis of 41 prospective cohort studies

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

It is still debatable whether metabolic status in normal weight population increases the risk of mortality (all-cause mortality (ACM), cardiovascular mortality (CVM)) and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) as compared to the obese population. Therefore, this meta-analysis aims to evaluate the association of the metabolically unhealthy normal weight (MUH-NW) phenotype with all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and MACE in comparison to metabolically healthy obesity (MH-O), along with the association of metabolically unhealthy obesity (MUH-O) phenotype regarding the same outcomes compared to MUH-NW.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted using online databases from inception to June 20, 2022, to comprehensively search all prospective cohort studies comprising three variables including adults aged ≥18 years, obesity and four metabolic phenotypes, and interest outcomes (ACM, CVM, and MACE).

RESULTS

Forty-one prospective cohort studies with a total of 4,028,750 participants was included in this study. Compared to MH-O, MUH-NW had a substantially higher risk of ACM (RR = 1.47 (95%CI = 1.32-1.64); P < 0.001; I² = 89.8%,P-heterogeneity<0.001), CVM (RR = 2.37 (95%CI = 1.97-2.86); P < 0.001; I² = 83.7%,P-heterogeneity<0.001), and MACE (RR = 1.73 (95%CI = 1.49-2.00); P < 0.001; I² = 74.3%,P-heterogeneity<0.001). Moreover, MUH-O did not have a significantly elevated risk of ACM (RR = 0.97 (95%CI = 0.82-1.15); P = 0.736; I² = 98.3%,P-heterogeneity<0.001), CVM (RR = 0.96 (95%CI = 0.88-1.05); P = 0.394; I² = 77.0%,P-heterogeneity<0.001), and MACE (RR = 0.95 (95%CI = 0.80-1.13); P = 0.570; I² = 92.2%,P-heterogeneity<0.001) compared to MUH-NW.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, MUH-NW was superior but not inferior to MH-O and MUH-O in terms of increased risk of interest outcomes, refuting the notion that normal weight population is a benign condition. Hence, in normal weight population, metabolic screening is highly suggested to measure the baseline of obesity and metabolic phenotypes, thus preventing the risk of CVD and mortality in the future.

Association between the weight-adjusted-waist index and abdominal aortic calcification in United States adults: Results from the national health and nutrition examination survey 2013–2014

Background

Abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) is recognized as a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. This study aimed to evaluate the association between weight-adjusted-waist index (WWI) and AAC in United States adults aged ≥ 40 years.

Materials and methods

Data were derived from the 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). WWI was calculated as waist circumference divided by the square root of weight. AAC scores were quantified by the Kauppila scoring system, and severe AAC was defined as an AAC score ≥ 6. Weighted multivariable regression analysis and subgroup analysis were performed to evaluate the relationship between WWI with AAC scores and severe AAC. The restricted cubic spline model was used for the dose-response analysis.

Results

A total of 2,772 participants were included with the mean WWI of 11.17 ± 0.73 cm/√kg and mean AAC score of 1.48 ± 3.27. The prevalence of severe AAC was 9.64%. WWI was positively associated with higher AAC scores [β = 0.95, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.65–1.25, P < 0.001] and increased risk of severe AAC [odds ratio (OR) = 1.82; 95% CI: 1.20–2.75; P = 0.005]. A nearly linear relationship between the WWI and the odds of severe AAC was found after adjustment for multiple potential covariates (P for non-linear = 0.625). Subgroup analysis indicated that the association between WWI and AAC was similar in different population settings.

Conclusion

Higher WWI was associated with higher AAC score and increased risk of severe AAC in United States adults. Further studies are needed to confirm this relationship.

Updating Framingham CVD risk score using waist circumference and estimated cardiopulmonary function: a cohort study based on a southern Xinjiang population

Purpose

To explore the association between waist circumference (WC), estimated cardiopulmonary function (eCRF), and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in southern Xinjiang. Update the Framingham model to make it more suitable for the southern Xinjiang population.

Methods

Data were collected from 7705 subjects aged 30–74 years old in Tumushuke City, the 51st Regiment of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps. CVD was defined as an individual's first diagnosis of non-fatal acute myocardial infarction, death from coronary heart disease, and fatal or non-fatal stroke. The Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to analyze the association between WC, eCRF and CVD risk. Restricted cubic spline plots were drawn to describe the association of the two indicators with CVD risk. We update the model by incorporating the new variables into the Framingham model and re-estimating the coefficients. The discrimination of the model is evaluated using AUC, NRI, and IDI metrics. Model calibration is evaluated using pseudo R² values.

Results

WC was an independent risk factor for CVD (multivariate HR: 1.603 (1.323, 1.942)), eCRF was an independent protective factor for CVD (multivariate HR: 0.499 (0.369, 0.674)). There was a nonlinear relationship between WC and CVD risk (nonlinear χ2 = 12.43, P = 0.002). There was a linear association between eCRF and CVD risk (non-linear χ2 = 0.27, P = 0.6027). In the male, the best risk prediction effect was obtained when WC and eCRF were added to the model (AUC = 0.763((0.734,0.792)); pseudo R² = 0.069). In the female, the best risk prediction effect was obtained by adding eCRF to the model (AUC = 0.757 (0.734,0.779); pseudo R² = 0.107).

Conclusion

In southern Xinjiang, WC is an independent risk factor for CVD. eCRF is an independent protective factor for CVD. We recommended adding WC and eCRF in the male model and only eCRF in the female model for better risk prediction.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-14110-y.

The Effect of Endurance and Endurance-Strength Training on Bone Health and Body Composition in Centrally Obese Women-A Randomised Pilot Trial

There is no consensus exercise programme to reduce body weight and improve body composition simultaneously preventing bone loss or stimulating osteogenesis. This pilot study compared the effect of endurance and endurance-strength training on body composition and bone metabolism in centrally obese women. Recruited subjects were randomly assigned to three-month endurance (n = 22) or endurance-strength training (n = 22). Body composition, bone mineral density (BMD) and content (BMC) were assessed before and after the intervention and markers of bone formation and resorption were measured. Both training significantly decreased fat mass; however, endurance-strength training had a more favourable effect on lean mass for the gynoid area (p = 0.0211) and legs (p = 0.0381). Endurance training significantly decreased total body BMC and BMD (p = 0.0440 and p = 0.0300), whereas endurance-strength training only reduced BMD (p = 0.0063). Changes in densitometric parameters did not differ between the groups but endurance training increased osteocalcin levels (p = 0.04845), while endurance-strength training increased tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b concentrations (p = 0.00145). In conclusion, both training programmes were effective in the reduction of fat mass simultaneously negatively affecting bone health. However, endurance-strength training seemed to be more effective in increasing lean mass. The study protocol was registered in the ClinicalTrials.gov database under the number NCT03444207, date of registration: 23 February 2018 (retrospective registration).

Association between waist-hip ratio and subclinical myocardial injury in the general population: Insights from the NHANES

BACKGROUND

Although studies have shown that higher waist-hip ratio (WHR) is closely related to higher risk of metabolism-related diseases, the relationship between WHR and subclinical myocardial injury (SC-MI) is unknown. This study was to evaluate the effect of WHR on SC-MI in the general population free from cardiovascular disease.

METHODS

The cross-sectional study included 6253 participants without cardiovascular disease (CVD) from the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) for further analysis. Restricted cubic spline, multivariable logistic regression models and subgroup analyses were performed to assess the association between WHR and SC-MI.

RESULTS

The multivariate logistic regression showed that after adjusting for potential confounding factors, participants in the higher quartiles had higher risk of developing SC-MI than those in the first quartile of WHR [Q3, OR (95% CI): 1.523 (1.159, 2.000), P = 0.002; Q4, OR (95% CI): 1.719 (1.279, 2.311), P < 0.001], and this relationship was robust among the participants aged ≥ 50 years, with hypertension and without diabetes. Every 0.1 unit increase in WHR, as a continuous variable, increased the risk of SC-MI by more than 20% [OR (95% CI): 1.233 (1.092, 1.392), P = 0.001]. And restricted cubic spline analysis showed that there was a linear positive correlation between WHR and the risk of SC-MI.

CONCLUSIONS

WHR may be an independent risk factor for SC-MI in the general population free from CVD.

Causative Mechanisms of Childhood and Adolescent Obesity Leading to Adult Cardiometabolic Disease: A Literature Review

The past few decades have shown a worrisome increase in the prevalence of obesity and its related illnesses. This increasing burden has a noteworthy impact on overall worldwide mortality and morbidity, with significant economic implications as well. The same trend is apparent regarding pediatric obesity. This is a particularly concerning aspect when considering the well-established link between cardiovascular disease and obesity, and the fact that childhood obesity frequently leads to adult obesity. Moreover, most obese adults have a history of excess weight starting in childhood. In addition, given the cumulative character of both time and severity of exposure to obesity as a risk factor for associated diseases, the repercussions of obesity prevalence and related morbidity could be exponential in time. The purpose of this review is to outline key aspects regarding the current knowledge on childhood and adolescent obesity as a cardiometabolic risk factor, as well as the most common etiological pathways involved in the development of weight excess and associated cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

Pathophysiology of Obesity

As obesity continues a relentless march across the globe, researchers are beginning to unlock the complicated interplay among obesity, its ensuing inflammation, and downstream complications. It is becoming clear that obesity is a chronic, multifactorial, inflammatory disease of maladaptive adipose tissue mass involving complex links among genetics, hormonal-signaling, and the environment. Understanding the intricate pathogenesis of obesity and its sequela will go a long way to discovering better treatment options and lessen anti-obesity bias.

What Can We Change in Diet and Behaviour in Order to Decrease Carotid Intima-Media Thickness in Patients with Obesity?

Atherosclerosis-considered the major cause of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs)-is strongly associated with obesity, to which it strongly contributes. Moreover, atherosclerosis is characterised by a long asymptomatic phase, and its progression can lead to serious cardiovascular (CV) events. The carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) has been determined as a predictor of CV events, as well as a marker of subclinical atherosclerosis, and has been used in clinical trials as an alternative assessment method or a surrogate endpoint. It should be noted that several behavioural approaches can directly influence the cIMT values, and decrease or increase the CV risk. In our paper, we aimed to summarize the current knowledge regarding IMT measurement among patients with obesity as a risk group-also in terms of the obesity paradox where the diagnosis of subclinical atherosclerosis is especially essential and implements the early therapeutic approach. We also summarized behavioural, modifiable factors, such as the Mediterranean diet, the Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension Diets, body weight reduction or the intake of micro- and macronutrients, with a particular focus on the studies where the cIMT values were one of the outcomes. In order to collect the literature data related to the presented topic, the PubMed database was explored.

Utility of Three Adiposity Indices for Identifying Left Ventricular Hypertrophy and Geometric Remodeling in Chinese Children

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have shown that waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) performed similarly well when compared to body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) for identifying cardiovascular risk factors. However, to our knowledge, the performance of these three adiposity indices for identifying left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and left ventricular geometric (LVG) remodeling in youth has not been assessed. We aimed to determine the utility of BMI, WC and WHtR for identifying LVH and LVG in Chinese children.

METHODS

This study included 1,492 Chinese children aged 6-11 years. Adiposity indices assessed were BMI, WC and WHtR. LVH and high relative wall thickness (RWT) were defined using sex- and age-specific 90th percentile values of left ventricular mass index and RWT, respectively, based on the current population. LVG remodeling included concentric remodeling (CR), eccentric hypertrophy (EH) and concentric hypertrophy (CH), which was defined based on the combination of LVH and high RWT.

RESULTS

The magnitude of association of central obesity defined by WHtR with LVH [odds ratio (OR) =10.09, 95% confidence interval (CI) =6.66-15.29] was similar with general obesity defined by BMI (OR=10.49, 95% CI=6.97-15.80), and both were higher than central obesity defined by WC (OR=6.87, 95% CI=4.57-10.33). Compared with BMI, WHtR had better or similar predictive utility for identifying LVH, EH, and CH [the area under the curve (AUC): 0.84 vs. 0.79; 0.84 vs. 0.77; 0.87 vs. 0.88, respectively]; WC had worse or similar discriminatory utility with AUCs of 0.73, 0.70, 0.83, respectively.

CONCLUSION

WHtR performed similarly or better than BMI or WC for identifying LVH and LVG remodeling among Chinese children. WHtR provides a simple and convenient measure of central obesity that might improve the discrimination of children with cardiac structural damage.