Study Links Belly Fat to Increased Heart Failure Risk Through Inflammation - Video

New research presented at the American Heart Association EPI| Lifestyle Scientific Sessions 2026 highlights that fat stored around the waist- known as central obesity or visceral fat—may significantly increase the risk of Heart Failure, largely driven by inflammation. The findings suggest that where fat is stored may be more important than overall body weight.

The study found that higher waist circumference and waist-to-height ratio were more strongly associated with heart failure risk than body mass index (BMI). Notably, individuals with normal BMI but excess abdominal fat still faced elevated risk, indicating that BMI alone may underestimate cardiovascular danger.

Researchers followed nearly 2,000 adults for a median of 6.9 years, during which 112 participants developed heart failure. Blood tests revealed that higher levels of systemic inflammation—measured using markers such as C-reactive protein—were linked to increased risk. In fact, inflammation accounted for approximately 25% to 33% of the association between abdominal fat and heart failure.

These findings support growing evidence that American Heart Association has emphasized: chronic inflammation plays a key role in cardiovascular disease by damaging blood vessels, disrupting immune responses, and promoting tissue scarring in the heart.

Experts suggest that routine measurement of waist size could improve early detection of individuals at high risk, especially those who may appear metabolically healthy based on weight alone. Monitoring inflammation alongside central obesity may allow for earlier and more targeted prevention strategies.

The study underscores the importance of addressing visceral fat through lifestyle interventions such as diet, exercise, and weight management. Future research is needed to determine whether reducing inflammation can directly lower heart failure risk and how these findings apply across different types of heart failure.

REFERENCE: American Heart Association| https://newsroom.heart.org/news/extra-belly-weight-not-bmi-was-a-stronger-predictor-of-heart-failure-risk-inflammation