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Central (abdominal) obesity, also called visceral obesity, occurs when excess fat accumulates specifically around the abdomen, creating an “apple-shaped” body. Unlike generalized obesity with even fat distribution, central obesity involves dangerous visceral fat surrounding internal organs like the liver and pancreas. This fat is highly metabolically active, releasing free fatty acids and inflammatory adipokines that disrupt lipid and carbohydrate metabolism.

Clinically, central obesity is identified by waist circumference exceeding 40 inches (102 cm) in men or 35 inches (88 cm) in women, or a waist-to-hip ratio greater than 1.0 for men and 0.9 for women. It is a core component of metabolic syndrome and a major independent risk factor for type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and dyslipidemia—even in individuals with normal BMI.

Managing central obesity requires comprehensive lifestyle changes: a balanced diet rich in whole foods, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while limiting processed foods and sugary drinks. Regular aerobic exercise combined with strength training effectively reduces visceral fat. Early identification and intervention are crucial since central obesity significantly elevates cardiometabolic risk.