Abdominal Obesity (Belly Fat)―Defined

A significant portion of Americans deal with abdominal obesity, more commonly known as belly fat. In fact, recent data suggests that 60-70% of women and 50% of men struggle with this issue.

Belly fat refers to excess fat around the abdomen, also known as visceral fat, which surrounds vital internal organs. This area of fat storage is measured by waist circumference, with 40.2 inches or more for men, and 34.6 inches or more for women indicating cause for concern.

Belly fat is most prevalent among non-Hispanic White, Black, and Mexican American adults, as well as women, placing these individuals at higher risk for serious health issues.

Belly fat is a clear and present danger, in terms of both causes and effects, as fat collected around the midsection may significantly increase your risk for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, even in people with a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI).