Carrying extra weight around the waist is linked with an increased risk of sudden cardiac death, according to a study.
The study, published in Heart, found that those with the largest waists and hips combined are twice as likely to be affected as those with measurements in the normal range.
Researchers studied almost 15,000 middle aged men and women in America between the ages of 45 and 64.
Julie Ward, our Senior Cardiac Nurse, said: “This study, although interesting, has not really changed what we already know about obesity and our health.
“Being obese, especially if you have an increased waist circumference, puts you at greater risk of cardiovascular disease.
“Not only can obesity cause high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol levels, it is also linked to other factors associated with heart and circulatory disease including alterations in blood clotting and inflammation.
“Just a few simple changes in lifestyle can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. By stopping smoking, eating healthily and getting plenty of exercise you are on the way to a healthier weight and a healthier heart.”