Association of a novel anthropometric equation with visceral adipose tissue: An analysis of NHANES data

Authors : Cündullah Torun

Pages : 453-460

Doi:10.21673/anadoluklin.1669817

View : 34 | Download : 59

Publication Date : 2025-09-25

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Aim: Obesity is a major risk factor for cardiometabolic diseases, and the amount of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) is a key determinant of this risk. The waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), a common indicator of body fat distribution, can yield similar results in individuals with both high and low waist and hip circumferences, making it insufficient for accurately assessing VAT. Developing measurements that can better predict VAT magnitude would be beneficial for primary prevention. Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed data from 878 adults (NHANES 2017–2018). VAT was measured via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Anthropometric data (height, weight, waist, and hip circumference) were used to calculate body mass index (BMI), WHR, and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR). We introduced a new equation, W2HR, defined as WHR × waist circumference. Pearson correlation analysis assessed the associations between these metrics and VAT. ROC analysis determined their ability to distinguish increased VAT (>130 cm²) from normal VAT, with AUC values calculated. Results: The mean age of participants was 40.10 ± 11.69 years, and 50.6% were male. All indices showed a positive correlation with VAT (p<0.001). W2HR demonstrated the highest correlation coefficient (r = 0.773, 95% CI: 0.745–0.801), followed by waist circumference (r = 0.763, 95% CI: 0.732–0.792) and WHtR (r = 0.749, 95% CI: 0.714–0.783). Among both sexes, W2HR exhibited the highest discriminative ability for increased VAT (AUC in males = 0.885, 95% CI: 0.852–0.913; AUC in females = 0.903, 95% CI: 0.872–0.929). In males, W2HR showed a significantly better performance than BMI, waist circumference, and WHtR (p<0.001, p<0.001, and p=0.002, respectively). In females, W2HR was significantly superior to BMI and WHR (both p<0.001). Conclusion: W2HR is strongly correlated with VAT and easy to apply, highlighting the need for further research on its link to cardiometabolic risk.
Keywords : Adiposite, NHANES, obezite

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