What does a higher waist circumference typically indicate?

A higher waist circumference typically indicates a higher risk for cardiovascular issues because it is often associated with an increase in visceral fat, which is the fat stored around the abdominal organs. This type of fat is particularly concerning as it can lead to metabolic disturbances that contribute to cardiovascular disease, such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, and type 2 diabetes.

Research has shown that waist circumference can be a better marker for assessing health risks related to obesity than body mass index (BMI), as it specifically measures fat distribution rather than overall body weight. Therefore, individuals with a higher waist circumference are often at a greater risk for heart-related conditions, making it an important metric for health assessments.