Final answer:
Waist circumference is an indicator of visceral fat, which has a significant impact on health due to its metabolic activity and association with increased disease risk.option a is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
Waist circumference is considered an indicator of visceral fat, which is the type of fat stored within the abdominal cavity. This form of fat is clinically important because it releases hormones and inflammatory factors that can contribute to various health risks, unlike subcutaneous fat, which is stored beneath the skin. Measuring waist circumference is a straightforward way to assess fat distribution and potential health risks, such as metabolic syndrome and heart disease, with specific risk thresholds defined for both men and women.
For instance, men with a waist circumference greater than 40 inches and women with a waist circumference greater than 35 inches are associated with greater health risks. Additionally, the waist-to-hip ratio has been found to be a more accurate predictor of disease risk than BMI alone, as it takes into account where the fat is concentrated in the body. Those with a higher concentration of fat around the waist, or an "apple-shaped" body, exhibit a greater risk for chronic diseases compared to those with more fat around the hips, or a "pear-shaped" body.