Health · Medical Research · 8 hrs ago
Larger neck size linked to insulin resistance in a small study
Researchers studying 197 adults in Philadelphia found that larger necks were linked to signs of insulin resistance, a condition in which the body responds less well to insulin.
The study was presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions in Chicago, and included adults described as healthy.
Men with necks over 16 inches and women with necks over 13.5 inches were more likely to show insulin resistance, even after researchers accounted for waist size.
Insulin resistance is linked to type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome, which can raise the risk of heart attack and stroke.
The findings suggest neck size may reveal risks BMI misses, including in people who are not overweight, but the study shows an association rather than proving that neck size causes illness.
Researchers say routine neck measurements could help identify people who may benefit from earlier preventive care; the study does not establish a diagnosis based on neck size alone.
A small study found that people with larger necks were more likely to show signs of insulin resistance.
The association remained after researchers took waist size into account.
The study analysed health data from 197 healthy adults recruited from a Philadelphia hospital.
Researchers said neck circumference could be a practical way to identify health risks that measures such as BMI may miss.
The findings were presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions in Chicago.
- Who
- Researchers studied 197 healthy adults recruited from a Philadelphia hospital. The lead author was Dr Cynthia Cheng.
- What
- The study found an association between larger neck circumference and signs of insulin resistance.
- When
- The findings were presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions; the date is not stated.
- Where
- The participants were recruited from a hospital in Philadelphia. The findings were presented in Chicago.
- Why
- Researchers examined whether neck circumference could help identify insulin resistance and related health risks.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Researchers measured participants' neck and waist circumferences and tested them for insulin resistance.
Researchers presented findings linking larger neck circumference with signs of insulin resistance.
- Participants
- 197 healthy adults
- Recruitment location
- A Philadelphia hospital
- Men's neck measurement
- More than 16 inches was associated with greater likelihood of insulin resistance
- Women's neck measurement
- More than 13.5 inches was associated with greater likelihood of insulin resistance
- Adjustment
- The association remained after waist size was taken into account
What people are saying
Although not routinely measured in health care, neck circumference is a quick, accurate and comfortable measurement that reflects upper body fat
Routine measurement may facilitate earlier identification of patients at increased risk and support effective preventative cardiovascular care, especially in underserved communities.