Genetic influences on central abdominal fat: a twin study.

INTRODUCTION : Recent studies of regional fat distribution have focused on the clinical importance of central abdominal obesity. Central adiposity is strongly related to insulin resistance, non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), dyslipidaemia and cardiovascular disease. While significant genetic influences on body mass index (BMI), total body and subcutaneous fat have been demonstrated, the inheritance of central abdominal obesity, has...