Chinese scientists from Sichuan University conducted a large-scale study, the results of which indicate an increased risk of developing dementia and Parkinson's disease in people with excess fat deposits in the abdomen and arms. This was reported by gazeta.ru with reference to Neurology.
The study involved more than 412 000 people with an average age of 56. Scientists conducted a comprehensive assessment of the participants' body composition, including waist and hip measurements, grip strength, bone density, and the ratio of fat to muscle mass. Over nine years, the researchers tracked the incidence of dementia and Parkinson's disease among the participants.
The analysis of the data showed that people with higher levels of fat in their arms had an 18% higher risk of developing these diseases compared to those with slimmer arms. In addition, the abdominal type of fat deposition increased the likelihood of developing dementia and Parkinson's disease by 13%.
Interestingly, a higher percentage of muscle mass in the body was correlated with a reduced risk of cognitive impairment and motor disorders.
Scientists explain this relationship by the influence of cardiovascular diseases, which often accompany excess weight. Researchers note that there are common biological mechanisms of development between cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases.