Which obesity pattern is characterized by an apple-shaped physique?

The obesity pattern characterized by an apple-shaped physique is known as android obesity. This term is used to describe the distribution of body fat that tends to accumulate around the abdominal area and upper body. People with android obesity typically have a higher waist-to-hip ratio, which is indicative of fat being stored centrally rather than on the hips and thighs. This type of fat distribution is often associated with a higher risk of metabolic conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, due to the proximity of abdominal fat to vital organs.

In contrast, the other patterns mentioned are differentiated by their fat distribution. Gynoid obesity, for instance, describes a pear-shaped body where fat is concentrated in the hips, thighs, and buttocks. Balanced obesity refers to an even distribution of body fat throughout the body, and central obesity overlaps with android obesity but is specifically focused on excess body fat located in the abdominal region. Therefore, android obesity is the most accurately defined term for the apple-shaped physique as it emphasizes the central accumulation of fat.