A new study has revealed a clear link between high body mass index (BMI), waist circumference and an increased risk of heart failure.
The researchers analyzed data of approximately 360,000 participants and found that for every increase in waist circumference by 10 cm the risk of heart failure is increased by 29%.
“Overweight people have a 35% higher risk of developing heart failure, compared with people of normal weight. The results of our study showed that overweight should be considered as a clear risk factor for heart failure,” said first study author Dagfinn Aune of the Norwegian University of science and technology.
The study showed that BMI 25 to 30 kg/m2 (overweight) is associated with an increased risk of heart failure. A higher ratio of waist to hip ratio is also associated with progressively higher risk of developing this disease.
The researchers found that each increase in BMI of 5 units was associated with increased risk of death from heart failure by 26%.
“Overweight and obesity increase the risk of developing diseases of the heart muscle, which is a recognized risk factor for heart failure,” said Aune.
