Neck Size Linked to Increased Risks of Heart Disease and Diabetes

Emerging research indicates that neck size may be an important indicator of health risks, particularly concerning serious conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Studies have shown that a larger neck circumference can signal a higher likelihood of developing metabolic disorders, even among individuals with a healthy body mass index (BMI).

Dr. Ahmed Elbediwy and Dr. Nadine Wehida from Kingston University highlight that BMI has limitations, as it does not differentiate between muscle and fat or identify where fat is deposited in the body. They assert that measuring neck circumference could offer more valuable insights into health risks. According to their article for The Conversation, “neck circumference offers additional insight,” suggesting it may reflect excess visceral fat, which is more dangerous than fat stored in other areas.

Visceral fat is known to be more metabolically active, releasing fatty acids, hormones, and inflammatory substances into the bloodstream. This can disrupt bodily functions, contribute to chronic inflammation, and increase insulin resistance, thus placing additional strain on vital organs. The implications of these findings extend beyond just obesity, as a thicker neck has been linked to increased risks of type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes.

Moreover, larger neck sizes have a documented association with obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where the airway collapses during sleep, leading to breathing interruptions. This relationship is significant enough that physicians often consider neck circumference when diagnosing this sleep disorder.

In addition to metabolic and sleep-related issues, studies have revealed a connection between neck size and erectile dysfunction, particularly among men. The most concerning link appears to be with cardiovascular health. Research has established a strong correlation between neck circumference and risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, elevated triglycerides, and low levels of HDL, or “good” cholesterol.

A 2022 study found that individuals with larger necks faced a heightened risk of developing atrial fibrillation (AF), a condition that disrupts normal heartbeat patterns and can lead to serious cardiovascular events, including stroke and heart failure. The research indicated that this association remained strong even after accounting for BMI and waist circumference, underscoring the potential importance of neck size as a health risk indicator, particularly among those with obesity. This finding is particularly relevant in the context of the obesity epidemic in the United States, where the CDC reports that two in five adults are classified as obese.

“Our findings indicate that neck circumference potentially may be used as an easily obtainable measure for assessing risk of incident AF,” the study authors stated, emphasizing the need for further research to explore its role in health prevention and treatment.

While these findings raise significant awareness, experts stress that measuring neck circumference should not replace regular health check-ups. Instead, it can serve as an additional tool for understanding personal health risks. This approach may be particularly useful for pregnant women or individuals who find it challenging to obtain accurate waist measurements.

Measuring neck circumference is straightforward. Individuals can take a tape measure and wrap it around the narrowest part of their neck. A neck circumference over 17 inches for men and 15.5 inches for women is generally considered large. Dr. Sarah Preis, an associate professor in biostatistics at Boston University’s School of Public Health, noted, “Currently, neck circumference is not used in routine clinical practice. However, since high neck circumference is correlated with increased BMI, it would be reasonable for a person who is concerned about the thickness of their neck to consult with their primary care physician.”

Elbediwy and Wehida also suggest that lifestyle changes, such as engaging in cardiovascular exercise and weight training, can help reduce neck circumference and the associated risks. They emphasize the importance of maintaining a balanced diet and quality sleep to support overall health and metabolic function.

As research continues to illuminate the link between neck size and various health conditions, individuals are encouraged to monitor this measurement alongside routine health assessments to better understand their risks and take proactive steps towards healthier living.