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Excess Abdominal Fat Linked to Chronic Pain: New Study Highlights Risks for Women


A groundbreaking study has revealed a significant link between abdominal fat and chronic musculoskeletal pain, with women showing a stronger association than men. The findings, derived from data collected through the UK Biobank, provide new insights into the relationship between body fat distribution and pain, shedding light on how visceral and subcutaneous fat may contribute to widespread and multisite discomfort.


The Study


Researchers analysed data from over 32,400 participants (average age 55, 51% women) enrolled in the UK Biobank. Participants underwent MRI scans to measure two types of abdominal fat:

  • Visceral Adipose Tissue (VAT): Fat surrounding internal organs.

  • Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue (SAT): Fat located beneath the skin.


Participants were asked if they experienced chronic pain in areas such as the neck, shoulders, back, hips, knees, or throughout the body for more than three months. Two years later, follow-up imaging and pain assessments were conducted with 638 participants.


Key Findings


  • Stronger Link for Women: Higher levels of visceral fat were significantly associated with a greater number of chronic pain sites in both men and women, but the correlation was notably stronger in women.

  • Subcutaneous Fat Role: Elevated levels of subcutaneous fat were also linked to increased reports of chronic pain, further underscoring the relationship between abdominal fat and musculoskeletal issues.


Why Women Are More Affected


The study suggests that sex-specific differences, including hormonal influences and fat distribution patterns, may explain why women experience a stronger association between abdominal fat and chronic pain. Women naturally store more subcutaneous fat, and hormonal fluctuations, particularly during menopause, may exacerbate these effects.


Implications for Women’s Health


These findings add to growing evidence that abdominal obesity can have far-reaching consequences beyond metabolic health, directly influencing musculoskeletal pain and overall quality of life. Chronic pain not only affects physical health but can also take a toll on mental health and daily functioning.


For women, who already face unique challenges in health care and are often primary caregivers, addressing abdominal fat could be a critical step in reducing chronic pain and improving well-being.


What Can Be Done?

Experts recommend the following steps to help reduce abdominal fat and manage chronic pain:

  • Regular Exercise: Incorporating strength training and aerobic activities to target visceral fat.

  • Healthy Diet: Prioritising whole foods, lean proteins, and fibre while limiting processed foods and sugary drinks.

  • Stress Management: Chronic stress can contribute to abdominal fat accumulation, making stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness or yoga beneficial.

  • Routine Check-Ups: Women should discuss pain and weight concerns with their healthcare provider for personalised advice and interventions.


Call for More Research


While the study offers important insights, researchers emphasize the need for further investigation into the mechanisms driving these associations. They also call for more gender-specific studies to develop tailored prevention and treatment strategies for women.


This research underscores the importance of addressing abdominal fat as part of a broader approach to women’s health and highlights the need for proactive measures to prevent and manage chronic pain.

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