Abstract

Anthropometric measurements play a crucial role in assessing metabolic variables and predicting cardiovascular risk. Neck circumference (NC), a simple and time-saving measure, has emerged as a potential indicator of central obesity and a predictor for cardiovascular risk factors. This study aims to explore the correlation between NC and lipid profile, emphasizing its significance as a screening tool for overweight individuals. The primary objectives of this cross-sectional study are to determine whether NC alone can predict overweight and obesity and to assess the association between NC and cardiovascular risk factors. Ethical clearance was obtained, and written consent was obtained from 100 subjects (50 males and 50 females) aged 25 to 50 years undergoing master health checkups. Exclusion criteria included systemic diseases, smoking, alcohol consumption, medication, and diet restrictions. Anthropometric measurements, including NC, BMI, and lipid profile, were recorded. Significant gender-based differences were observed in NC, with males having higher values. NC correlated positively with BMI, weight, cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides in both genders. NC > 38 cm for males and > 34 cm for females were identified as optimal cutoff points for determining overweight/obesity. The study also revealed associations between NC and blood pressure, heart rate, and lipid profile. Neck circumference demonstrates a strong correlation with lipid profile factors and cardiovascular risk, making it a potential screening tool for upper-body obesity. Gender-specific cutoff values were established for identifying overweight and obese subjects. NC’s simplicity, cultural acceptability, and ease of measurement suggest its utility in primary care settings for obesity assessment and cardiovascular risk prediction. Further research is warranted to establish standardized NC cutoff values for the Indian population.

Keywords

upper body obesity, neck circumference, blood pressure, heart rate, lipid profile