Waist Circumference Link to DR
November 14, 2025
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3 min
A recent NHANES analysis reveals a significant link between the weight-adjusted waist index (WWI) and the risk of diabetic retinopathy (DR) among U.S. adults with type 2 diabetes. Conducted by researchers from Hunan University, the study analyzed data from 2,001 adults, indicating that each unit increment in WWI correlates with a 32% increased risk of developing DR, particularly among older women and non-Hispanic Whites. The research suggests WWI may serve as a sensitive obesity marker surpassing BMI and can assist endocrinologists and ophthalmologists in identifying high-risk patients.
1. The study links WWI to a 32% increased risk of DR in type 2 diabetes. 2. Conducted on 2,001 adults from NHANES data (2005-2018). 3. Significant findings among women, older adults, and non-Hispanic Whites. 4. Identified a threshold effect at WWI of 12.35. 5. WWI may be a more sensitive obesity measure than BMI. 6. Suggests mechanisms include inflammation and insulin resistance. 7. Further research needed to confirm findings across diverse populations.
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