Final answer:
High concentration of fat around the waist, known as visceral fat, is a significant risk indicator for heart diseases and diabetes. This is because visceral fat releases harmful hormones and inflammatory factors. Abdominal obesity is defined by waist-to-hip ratios above 0.90 for males and above 0.85 for females, and maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is important for reducing these health risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
A significant risk of heart diseases and diabetes can be indicated by a high concentration of fat around the waist. This area of fat accumulation is known as visceral fat and it differs physiologically from fat in other areas. Visceral fat releases hormones and inflammatory factors that contribute to disease risk. People with "apple-shaped" bodies who carry more weight around their waist are at greater risks for chronic diseases compared to those with "pear-shaped" bodies, who carry more weight around their hips. High amounts of visceral fat can lead to conditions such as metabolic syndrome which is characterized by high blood pressure, high glucose and triglyceride levels, and low levels of HDL. Lifestyle changes that include diet and exercise are crucial for controlling body fat accumulation, especially when it elevates the risk for heart disease and diabetes.
The World Health Organization defines abdominal obesity as having a waist-to-hip ratio above 0.90 for males and above 0.85 for females. The waist-to-hip ratio is often used in conjunction with other health indicators to assess disease risk. Men with a waist circumference greater than 40 inches and women more than 35 inches are likely to face greater health challenges.
Understanding that obesity and the distribution of body fat play a significant role in the development of cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes, it is crucial to manage these risk factors to maintain good health and reduce the likelihood of these conditions.