What defines central obesity?

Central obesity, often referred to as abdominal obesity, is characterized by an excess accumulation of fat around the waist and abdomen, leading to an increased waist circumference. It is typically assessed using the waist-to-hip ratio or waist circumference measurements, with specific thresholds varying by gender and ethnicity. Central obesity is associated with higher risks of metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and other health complications. It is distinct from overall obesity, which considers total body fat.