Sign in

Doctor warns ‘waist size above this number’ can increase risk of diabetes, high blood pressure and even cancer

Published on: Sep 12, 2025, 16:03:32 IST
Share
Share via
  • facebook
  • twitter
  • linkedin
  • whatsapp
Copy link
  • copy link
Excess waist fat linked to serious health risks, says Dr. Bhagyesh Kulkarni. (Freepik)
Excess waist fat linked to serious health risks, says Dr. Bhagyesh Kulkarni. (Freepik)

Excess fat around the waist can silently raise health risks. Dr. Bhagyesh Kulkarni explains why waist size matters and what it reveals about your health.

Carrying excess fat around the waist is more than a cosmetic concern, it can silently increase the risk of serious health problems. Even people who appear otherwise healthy may face hidden risks if their waist size crosses a certain threshold. Dr. Bhagyesh Kulkarni, Cardio-Diabetologist from Pune, explains on August 22 episode of The Ranveer Show what your waist size reveals about your health and why it matters.

(Also read: Dentist who lost his dad to rapid dementia shares 5 habits he follows now to protect his brain: ‘Floss every night’ )

Why waist size matters

Dr. Kulkarni explains that waist size can be a major indicator of underlying health risks. “If the fat around your waist goes beyond 34 inches, you should check it regularly. Excess fat here increases the chances of lifestyle-related disorders. A waist circumference above this threshold often indicates fat accumulation in vital organs such as the liver and pancreas,” he says.

How evolution and metabolism affect waist fat

He adds that this is tied to how the human body evolved. “In early human history, our bodies were designed for periods of fasting and to preserve energy. Today, we eat almost continuously. Excess fat around the waist is a clear sign that the body is storing more fat than necessary.”

Dr. Bhagyesh warns that when metabolism is disrupted, dormant genes linked to conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and even cancer can become active. “When this happens, those silent risks can be triggered, leading to serious health problems over time,” he notes.

(Also read: Nephrologist shares 7 signs you may be mistaking for 'tiredness' but could actually signal serious kidney disease )

Note to readers: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

  • Akanksha Agnihotri
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Akanksha Agnihotri

    Akanksha Agnihotri is a lifestyle journalist with over 3 years of experience. She is a psychology graduate and holds a postgraduate diploma in Radio and Television Journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Delhi, where she graduated as a gold medalist. Originally from Bhopal, the beautiful capital of Madhya Pradesh, she draws inspiration from the city’s rich cultural heritage and layered storytelling traditions that subtly shape her narrative voice. She writes extensively about fashion, beauty, health, relationships, culture, and food, exploring everything from trending styles and runway moments to wellness routines and mindful living. Passionate about meaningful and candid conversations, she enjoys interviewing celebrities, doctors, designers, and film personalities, diving into discussions on fitness, beauty, mental health, and everything fun in between. With a keen eye for trends and a thoughtful understanding of human behaviour, she brings depth, sensitivity, and authenticity to her stories, ensuring they resonate with a wide and diverse audience. When she’s not working, you’ll usually find her lost in a book, planning her next mountain trek, or mapping out spontaneous travel escapes. She loves discovering new authors, revisiting old favourites, and spending quiet afternoons in museums soaking in art, history, and culture. An avid bird-watching enthusiast, she finds joy in early morning walks, spotting rare birds, and reconnecting with nature. Whether sipping coffee while journaling her thoughts or exploring hidden corners of a new city, she constantly seeks inspiration in everyday moments that often turn into compelling story ideas.Read More

Catch every big hit, every wicket with Crick-it, a one stop destination for Live Scores, Match Stats, Quizzes, Polls & much more. Explore now!.

Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.