Visceral fat reference values ​​and metabolic syndrome risk threshold in Algerian adults

What is it about?

This study explores how a specific type of fat, called visceral fat, affects the health of Algerian adults. Unlike the subcutaneous fat, visceral fat is stored deep inside the belly and is associated with several cardiometabolic risk factors, particularly metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance. Because the amount of this fat considered "healthy" varies between different populations, genders, and ages, our research aimed to establish a benchmark for visceral fat levels in an Algerian adult population and to determine how much of it is a risk for developing metabolic syndrome. We used a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scanner to measure the fat, and our findings offer a helpful guide for doctors and patients by defining the levels of visceral fat linked to better health outcomes in this population.

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Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash

Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This publication addresses a significant gap in medical data for visceral fat in the Maghreb region. Before our study, there were no established reference values for visceral fat for the general population in Algeria or its neighboring countries. The practical implication is that our proposed threshold values for visceral fat can now be used to identify individuals at risk of metabolic syndrome and develop targeted management strategies.

Perspectives