Khaberni - Neck thickness disturbs many, especially women, from an aesthetic perspective, but researchers have recently found repeated evidence that neck thickness is not just a cosmetic issue, but may also indicate an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
According to researchers, this is because neck circumference is a direct indicator of visceral fat, which is the harmful fat surrounding organs. Therefore, these fat deposits are active in the upper half of the body, especially in the abdomen or neck. They release fatty acids, inflammatory mediators, and hormones that may stress blood vessels and disrupt the metabolism of sugar and fats.
Chemistry scientist, Ahmad Al Badawi from Kingston University in the UK, documented on "The Conversation" website, quoting from the German channel "ntv" website: "Neck circumference can be a simple, non-invasive indicator to better assess cardiovascular disease risks, regardless of body weight."
What measurement?
According to a scientific analysis published in the American Heart Association (AHA) journal, the critical circumference for necks is 43 centimeters or more for men. For women, the critical limit is 35.5 centimeters. They are also five times more likely to suffer from atrial fibrillation compared to those with slender necks, regardless of body mass index or waist circumference, according to the scientific study's findings. They also frequently suffer from high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, and heart failure.
Other health problems
But cardiovascular diseases are not the only problem, as other studies have found that an increase in neck circumference also increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes, and obstructive sleep apnea.
Particularly noteworthy is that the health risks associated with large neck circumference seem to increase even for people whose body mass index is within the normal range, according to the study. This means that one can have a healthy weight according to traditional standards and yet be at increased health risks due to their neck circumference. However, there is no need to worry for those now measuring their necks and finding them significantly large. The precise measurements have not yet been universally adopted and may vary depending on race and body type.
As for solutions, simple habits such as exercising regularly, following a healthy diet, and getting good sleep can reduce neck circumference, and therefore visceral fats in the long term, which also reduces the risks of cardiovascular diseases.
The essential message is that too much fat anywhere is not good for the heart. People with a body mass index over 25 are at increased risk of coronary problems, regardless of where they carry their weight. Neck fat can also increase the risk of sleep apnea by helping block the airways in the throat.
