Normal-weight central obesity: implications for diabetes mellitus

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Health
• Public Health

Background:

• Current obesity guidelines primarily use body mass index (BMI) and often overlook central obesity.
• Limited research exists on the link between normal-weight central obesity and diabetes mellitus (DM) risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between various obesity patterns, including normal-weight central obesity, and the risk of developing diabetes mellitus (DM).

Main Methods:

• Analysis of data from 26,825 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).
• Utilized a weighted multivariate logistic regression model to assess the relationship between obesity patterns and DM risk.

Main Results:

• Normal-weight central obesity is linked to a 2.37-fold increased risk of DM compared to normal-weight individuals without central obesity.
• In men, normal-weight central obesity, obesity with central obesity, and central obesity alone showed similar elevated DM risks.
• Overweight men without central obesity had a 1.21-fold increased risk, while obese men without central obesity had a reduced risk (OR: 0.53).

Conclusions:

• Central obesity poses a significant risk for diabetes mellitus, irrespective of a normal BMI.
• Clinical assessment should consider central obesity indicators (e.g., waist circumference) alongside BMI for comprehensive risk evaluation.
• Further research and clinical guidelines should emphasize the importance of managing central obesity for diabetes prevention.