High waist-to-hip ratio in couples tied to hypertension: Study
The relationship between body shape and health has been a topic of interest for many years. Recent research has shed light on the importance of waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) as a marker for cardiometabolic risk. A study of 51,797 Indian couples has found that high WHR is strongly linked to hypertension, with the risk rising sharply when both spouses have central obesity. The study, published in the American Journal of Preventive Cardiology, highlights the significance of WHR as a key indicator of cardiovascular health and emphasizes the need for couple-focused lifestyle interventions.
Understanding Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR)
Waist-to-hip ratio is a simple and effective measure of body fat distribution. It is calculated by dividing the circumference of the waist by the circumference of the hips. A high WHR indicates a greater accumulation of fat around the abdominal area, which is known as central obesity. Central obesity is a major risk factor for various health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
The Study
The study analyzed data from 51,797 Indian couples, making it one of the largest studies of its kind. The researchers found that couples with high WHR were more likely to have hypertension, with the risk increasing significantly when both spouses had central obesity. The study controlled for various factors, including age, socioeconomic status, and lifestyle habits, to ensure that the results were not influenced by external factors.
Key Findings
The study’s key findings include:
- High WHR is strongly linked to hypertension: The study found that couples with high WHR were more likely to have hypertension, with the risk increasing by 25% for every 0.1 unit increase in WHR.
- Central obesity in both spouses increases risk: When both spouses had central obesity, the risk of hypertension increased by 50% compared to couples where only one spouse had central obesity.
- WHR is a key marker for cardiometabolic risk: The study highlights WHR as a key indicator of cardiovascular health, emphasizing the need for regular monitoring and lifestyle interventions to reduce the risk of cardiometabolic diseases.
Implications of the Study
The study’s findings have significant implications for public health and clinical practice. The results suggest that couple-focused lifestyle interventions may be an effective way to reduce the risk of hypertension and other cardiometabolic diseases. Such interventions could include:
- Dietary changes: Encouraging couples to adopt a healthy diet, low in saturated fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Physical activity: Promoting regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging, or cycling, to help reduce central obesity and improve cardiovascular health.
- Stress management: Teaching couples stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation or yoga, to help manage stress and reduce the risk of cardiometabolic diseases.
Conclusion
The study’s findings highlight the importance of WHR as a key marker for cardiometabolic risk. The results emphasize the need for couple-focused lifestyle interventions to reduce the risk of hypertension and other cardiometabolic diseases. By adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as a balanced diet and regular physical activity, couples can reduce their risk of developing these conditions and improve their overall health and wellbeing.
Reference
For more information on this study, please visit: https://medicaldialogues.in/cardiology-ctvs/news/shared-central-adiposity-in-indian-couples-substantially-increases-hypertension-risk-ajpc-study-december-2025-159890
About the Author
