Predict Risk of Cardiovascular Disease with Body Roundness Index
New research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association suggests that monitoring a person’s Body Roundness Index (BRI) over time may help predict their risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). The study, conducted in China and analyzing almost 10,000 adults aged 45 and older over a 6-year period, found a significant association between higher BRI levels and an increased risk of CVD.
What is Body Roundness Index (BRI)?
BRI is a measure that reflects abdominal body fat and height, providing a better indication of body fat distribution and visceral fat compared to Body Mass Index (BMI). While BMI measures weight in relation to height, BRI specifically focuses on abdominal obesity, which is known to be a strong risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
The Study Findings
The study analyzed BRI measurements from 2011 to 2016 and tracked the trajectory of BRI levels in the participants. Individuals with higher and consistently elevated BRI measurements showed a significantly higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease, stroke, or cardiac events. This risk persisted even after adjusting for demographic variables, medical history, and health measures such as blood pressure, blood glucose, and cholesterol levels.
Compared to those in the low-stable BRI group, participants in the moderate-stable BRI group had a 61% increased risk of CVD, while those in the high-stable BRI group faced a 163% higher risk. These findings suggest that monitoring changes in BRI over time can be a valuable predictive factor for assessing cardiovascular disease risk.
Implications and Recommendations
The results of this study indicate that maintaining a moderate-to-high stable BRI over a 6-year period can significantly increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. This underscores the importance of monitoring abdominal obesity as a key risk factor for CVD. The study authors recommend further research to better understand how these findings can be utilized to prevent cardiovascular disease and improve heart health outcomes.
Limitations and Future Directions
While the study provides valuable insights into the relationship between BRI and cardiovascular disease risk, it is important to note some limitations. The findings are specific to adults living in China, and further research is needed to determine the generalizability of these results to other populations. Additionally, the study’s follow-up period of six years may not capture long-term changes in BRI measurements. Future studies should consider longer follow-up periods and incorporate more diverse participant populations to enhance the validity of the findings.
Conclusion
The association between Body Roundness Index and cardiovascular disease risk highlights the importance of monitoring abdominal obesity as a predictive factor for heart health. By assessing changes in BRI over time, healthcare professionals can better identify individuals at increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. This research contributes to the ongoing efforts to address modifiable risk factors for heart disease and improve cardiovascular outcomes globally.
