Answer:

Your body mass index (BMI), based on your height and weight, is about 27. According to the World Health Organization's classification for Asians, a BMI between 25 and 30 is classified as class one obesity.

BMI is only one factor in assessing the risk of obesity-related complications. Doctors also consider other factors, including body fat distribution, especially visceral fat (the deep layer of fat inside the abdomen surrounding organs like the liver, pancreas, and intestines). Waist and hip circumference are measured to calculate the waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). In Asian women, a waist circumference of 80 cm or more, or a WHR greater than 0.85, indicates high visceral fat, even if the BMI is not excessively high. Therefore, "apple-shaped" obesity (fat concentrated in the abdomen) is more dangerous than "pear-shaped" obesity (fat concentrated in the hips and thighs).

Doctor Thanh checks a patient's health. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

Visceral fat can release inflammatory substances that damage blood vessel walls and cells in organs, promoting chronic inflammation and insulin resistance. This can lead to conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, fatty liver disease, and stroke.

Since you have both belly fat and high cholesterol, your risk of stroke is higher than average. You should visit a reputable, multi-specialty medical facility with an obesity treatment center to assess your overall health and lose weight under a doctor's supervision. Losing 5-10% of your body weight can improve metabolic indicators and reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. Based on body composition measurements (InBody), visceral fat index, metabolic status, and any vascular abnormalities, doctors can develop a personalized treatment plan combining endocrinology, nutrition, and exercise medicine.

Associate Professor, Doctor Vu Thuy Thanh

Center for Weight Control and Obesity Treatment

Tam Anh General Hospital