A NEW study has revealed that reducing waist circumference, not just overall weight, is key to lowering mortality risk in postmenopausal women. Researchers found that women who intentionally lost weight and reduced their waist size had a significantly lower risk of death from all causes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease.
The study followed 58,961 women aged 50 to 79 years for an average of 18.6 years. Researchers analysed weight loss and waist circumference reduction, distinguishing between intentional and unintentional weight changes. Women who intentionally lost weight without reducing their waist size only saw a lower risk of cardiovascular death, but those who achieved both weight loss and waist reduction had significantly lower risks across all mortality categories.
Conversely, unintentional weight or waist loss was linked to a higher risk of death, suggesting that unplanned weight loss may be a sign of underlying health issues. Additionally, weight gain and increased waist circumference were associated with higher mortality risks.
These findings underscore the importance of reducing visceral fat through diet and exercise, rather than focusing solely on weight loss. The researchers emphasised that lifestyle changes that promote central fat loss should be a key focus for improving long-term health outcomes.
Aleksandra Zurowska, EMJ
Reference
Hendryx M et al. Intentional Weight Loss, Waist Circumference Reduction, and Mortality Risk Among Postmenopausal Women. JAMA Netw Open. 2025;8(3):e250609.
