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A recent study by researchers at the University of Copenhagen has revealed a worrying aspect of smoking that goes beyond its known health risks.
Contrary to popular wisdom, smoking does not necessarily keep people slim and “fit”. In fact, even seemingly thin smokers may be harbor a dangerous type of fat deep in the abdomen.
The study, recently published in the scientific journal Addiction, explores the relationship between smoking and the distribution of abdominal fat. Unlike subcutaneous fat, which is found just under the skin and may be visually apparent, visceral fat It is hidden deep in the abdomen and is associated with an increased risk of several health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes and dementia.
The researchers examined genetic data from large-scale studies involving more than 1.2 million individuals who had recently started smoking and more than 450,000 lifetime smokers. In addition, data from a study on body fat distribution that included more than 600,000 participants were analyzed.
According to BBC Science Focus, researchers have identified genetic variants associated with smoking behaviors and body fat distribution, focusing particularly on waist-to-hip ratios.
By comparing individuals with these genetic variants to individuals without these variants, they were able to discern any differences in the distribution of abdominal fat attributed to smoking.
The results revealed a convincing link between smoking and increased levels of visceral fat, regardless of other factors such as alcohol consumption and socioeconomic context.
The study challenges the common misconception that smoking suppresses appetite and keeps people thin. Although smokers may in fact have lower body weights on average, this does not negate the potential accumulation of harmful visceral fat.
