In today’s fast-paced world, unhealthy eating habits, sedentary routines, and chronic stress have become the norm. With increased screen time, processed food consumption, and lack of physical activity, obesity is on the rise like never before—and it's not just about how heavy we are. Obesity is no longer just a matter of weight—it’s a growing global health crisis linked to serious conditions like heart failure. Modern lifestyles, driven by fast food, high stress, and sedentary habits, have made people more vulnerable than ever.

According to the World Health Organization, more than 1 billion people globally are obese, including 650 million adults, 340 million adolescents, and 39 million children. This growing epidemic is directly linked to a higher risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and even certain cancers.

Traditionally, Body Mass Index (BMI) has been used as the standard tool to measure obesity and related health risks. But a new study presented at Heart Failure 2025, part of the European Society of Cardiology’s congress in Belgrade, suggests there's a better way to predict heart health: waist-to-height ratio.

Researchers from Lund University in Sweden found that fat stored around the waist—not just overall body fat—is a more accurate predictor of heart failure risk. This abdominal or "visceral" fat surrounds vital organs and contributes more significantly to cardiovascular problems than fat stored elsewhere in the body.

What the study found?

The study tracked 1,792 individuals aged 45–73 from the Malmö Preventive Project over 12.6 years. Participants were grouped based on their blood sugar levels—normal, prediabetic, or diabetic. Over the study period, 132 developed heart failure.

The key finding? Waist-to-height ratio showed a stronger correlation with heart failure than BMI.

Dr Amra Jujic, lead presenter from Lund University, explained, “BMI doesn’t account for fat distribution, which plays a critical role in how obesity affects our organs. Central fat is more harmful.”

What’s a healthy waist size?

Co-author Dr John Molvin added, “Your waist should be less than half your height.” For instance, if you’re 170 cm tall, your waist should ideally be under 85 cm.

Why this matters

This research suggests it's time for a shift—from focusing just on weight to where fat is stored. Experts recommend making waist measurements a regular part of health checkups, especially when evaluating heart risk.

By understanding and managing central obesity, we could take a vital step toward preventing heart failure.