Heart failure is a major public health concern affecting millions worldwide, and can significantly impact the quality of life. A new data presented by the European Society of Cardiology reveals that the incidence of heart failures could be predicted by the waist-to-height ratio.
The data was presented at the Heart Failure 2025 held on Sunday.
The study highlights that obesity affects a substantial proportion of patients with heart failure and the risk of heart failure increases as body mass increases.
BMI is the most common measure of obesity, but it is influenced by factors such as sex and ethnicity. "Waist-to-height ratio is considered a more robust measure of central adiposity, the harmful deposition of fat around visceral organs," said Dr Amra Jujic from Lund University, Sweden.
The researchers conducted the analysis of BMI to investigate the investigate the relationship between the waist-to-height ratio and the development of heart failures.
The study was conducted among participants aged 43-75 years.
What is heart failure?
Heart failure is a condition where the heart can’t pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. It can result from various factors, including heart attacks, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes, reduce hospitalisations, and enhance survival rates.
Managing the condition requires a comprehensive approach, including medication, lifestyle changes and sometimes device therapy.
Common symptoms of heart failure include:
1. Shortness of breath during activity or at rest
2. Fatigue
3. Swelling in legs, ankles and feet
4. Irregular heartbeat
5. Reduced ability to exercise
6. Coughs and wheezing
7. Increased need to urinate at night
8. Sudden weight gain