Final answer:
Central obesity is characterized by a substantial amount of visceral fat stored in the abdomen, leading to an apple-shaped figure and increased disease risk. Waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio are measures used to diagnose central obesity, which is linked to health issues like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Step-by-step explanation:
A predominance of upper body fat characterized by large deposits of visceral fat stores is referred to as central obesity. This type of obesity is where most of the excess body fat is stored in the abdomen which can lead to an apple-shaped figure. The visceral fat stored in the abdominal cavity releases hormones and inflammatory factors that contribute to disease risk, making central obesity a significant indicator of health issues such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Measuring waist circumference with a measuring tape just above the belly button helps determine the risk; men with a waist circumference greater than 40 inches and women more than 35 inches are at increased health risks.
Additionally, waist-to-hip ratio is another measure, with ratios greater than 0.85 for women or 0.90 for men being diagnostic of central obesity. Overall, lifestyle changes in diet and exercise are the best ways to control this accumulation of body fat.