Body Fat Distribution

Adipose tissue accumulation is referred to as body fat distribution. For individuals with android (apple-shaped) distribution, fat is centered around the abdominal area. This leads to an increased risk for coronary artery disease, stroke , diabetes , and high cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It is also an indicator for obesity . Gynoid (pear-shaped) distribution is associated with body fat that accumulates around the hip and thigh region.

Specific body fat distribution is often determined by measuring the waist-to-hip ratio, which is the circumference of the waist divided by the circumference of the hips. Android fat distribution is defined as a ratio greater than 1.0 for men and 0.8 for women.

SEE ALSO Anthropometric Measurements ; Body Image ; Obesity ; Waist-to-Hip Ratio ; Weight Management .

Diane L. Golzynski