Why might someone with a high waist-to-hip ratio be at risk for cardiovascular disease?

Prepare for the NBCSN Health Appraisal Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Ensure you are exam-ready!

A high waist-to-hip ratio is indicative of greater abdominal fat relative to hip size. This measure is crucial because abdominal fat, or visceral fat, is known to be metabolically active and linked to a host of health issues, particularly cardiovascular disease. This type of fat produces various hormones and inflammatory substances that can increase the risk for conditions such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance, all of which contribute to cardiovascular health risks.

In contrast, the other choices point to concepts that do not accurately capture the relationship between waist-to-hip ratio and cardiovascular disease risk. A balanced body composition does not typically reflect the potential health risks associated with increased abdominal fat. Poor muscle strength is not directly indicated by the waist-to-hip ratio—it primarily assesses fat distribution rather than muscle condition. Lastly, stating that waist-to-hip ratio is unrelated to body fat distribution overlooks the critical link between body fat distribution and health outcomes, particularly in relation to cardiovascular disease. Therefore, the correct answer focuses on the direct association of a high waist-to-hip ratio with increased abdominal fat and the corresponding higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

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