Researchers suggest that the body roundness index is a novel predictor of cardiovascular risk

A higher body mass index (BMI) is associated with a higher risk of heart disease. But is BMI really the best indicator of heart health? While it’s been the standard for years, scientists are exploring a novel measure: the body roundness index (BRI). A recent study suggests that BRI may better predict cardiovascular risk over time.

According to the latest research, in adults over the age of 45, a higher body roundness index over a six-year period means a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease test published in the Journal of the American Heart Association.

Previous studies have shown that BRI, a measure of belly fat and body shape, can support predict the risk of metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance and cardiovascular disease.

However, the latest study used nationally representative data from over 9,935 middle-aged and older adults in China to estimate the association between BRI over a given period and the risk of cardiovascular disease.

In the study, participants’ waist circumference and height were measured in their homes during recruitment in 2011–12, with follow-ups every two years. The researchers calculated the Body Roundness Index (BRI) using a standard formula that takes into account waist circumference and height. Instead of using just one BRI measurement, they tracked changes over time to understand how participants’ levels changed.

Blood samples were collected at enrollment and again in 2013–2014. Blood pressure was recorded as the average of three measurements taken at two visits in 2011–2012 and 2013–2014. Participant health history, demographics, and lifestyle risk factors were also assessed. During the follow-up period, participants were asked to self-report any heart disease diagnoses, such as heart attacks or strokes.

“Compared with participants in the low and stable BRI group, the risk of cardiovascular disease in the moderate and stable BRI group increased by 61% and in the high and stable BRI group it increased by 163%,” the report reads. press release it was stated.

The researchers noted that strokes and cardiac events were significantly more common among participants in the moderately stable and highly stable BRI groups.

“This is the first immense study to examine BRI over time and how it may be associated with cardiovascular disease among middle-aged and older Chinese adults. Our findings indicate that 6 years of moderate to high stable BRI appears to escalate the risk of cardiovascular disease, suggesting that BRI measurements may potentially be used as a predictor of cardiovascular disease,” senior study author Dr. Yun Qian said in a press release.

“This may be explained by the correlation between obesity and hypertension, high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes, which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Obesity has also been shown to lead to inflammation and other mechanisms in the body that can affect the heart and its function. Further studies are needed to confirm and fully understand how these findings can be used to prevent cardiovascular disease,” Dr. Qian said.