ASSOCIATION BETWEEN NECK CIRCUMFERENCE AND CARDIOVASCULAR RISK FACTORS: INSIGHTS FROM A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Neck circumference (NC) is a simple and practical measurement that has been suggested as a potential indicator of cardiovascular risk. This study investigates the relationship between NC and cardiovascular risk factors, including hypertension, elevated triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, and insulin resistance.

Aim: To evaluate the association between neck circumference and key cardiovascular risk factors and to assess its utility as an adjunctive marker for cardiovascular health.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving adults aged 20-70 years. NC was measured using a standard tape measure, and participants underwent assessments for blood pressure, lipid profiles, fasting glucose levels, and body mass index (BMI). Cardiovascular risk factors were diagnosed based on standard clinical criteria. Statistical analyses, including correlation and regression models, were used to determine associations between NC and cardiovascular risk factors.

Results: Elevated neck circumference was significantly associated with hypertension (mean NC: 38.4 cm, p<0.01), elevated triglycerides (mean NC: 39.1 cm, p<0.01), low HDL cholesterol (mean NC: 37.8 cm, p=0.03), and insulin resistance (mean NC: 38.9 cm, p<0.01). NC was also found to effectively differentiate between high and low cardiovascular risk groups, showing notable differences compared to traditional measures like waist circumference and BMI.

Conclusion: Neck circumference is significantly associated with various cardiovascular risk factors and shows promise as a practical adjunctive marker for cardiovascular risk assessment. Its simple measurement method and association with multiple risk factors suggest that NC could enhance screening and preventive strategies for cardiovascular disease. Further research is needed to confirm its long-term predictive value and explore its clinical applications.

Keywords: Neck Circumference, Cardiovascular Risk, Hypertension, Dyslipidemia, Insulin Resistance, Metabolic Syndrome.