Neck circumference as a reliable predictor of obesity and metabolic Syndrome in rural south-west Nigeria: A cross-sectional study

Background: Neck size is a potential indicator for excess weight and metabolic disorders, offering a simple, non-intrusive, and cost-effective evaluation method in remote regions. This study assessed the predictive value of neck size in Nigerian adults, whatever the gender. Methods: The anthropometries (weights, heights and the waist, hip and neck circumferences) the blood pressure, lipid panel, blood glucose, and HBA1c were determined and analyzed to predict obesity and metabolic syndrome. A multiple logistic regression analysis assessed the relationship between neck circumference and outcomes. Results: The mean age of the 250 (67 males and 183 females) participants was 58.50 ± 18.73 years, the males were older (60.84 ± 20.09 years vs. 57.64 ± 14.63 years, p= 0.001. The neck circumference was positively associated with body mass index, waist hip ratio and the waist circumference. It was predictive of obesity, central obesity, and metabolic syndrome. The area under the curve (AUC) for non-diabetics and for diabetic males and females were 0.82 to 0.88, and 0.86 and 0.81 respectively. The cutoff values for obesity were 37.75 cm (males) and 32.75 cm (females). Regression analysis showed a positive association between neck circumference and obesity, with odds ratios of 1.774 (males) and 1.559 (females). Conclusion: The neck circumference was positively associated with, and predictive of central obesity, and metabolic syndrome. It is a reliable, convenient and affordable measure for assessing obesity and metabolic syndrome in Nigeria. Incorporating neck circumference measurements into routine evaluations can provide insights into obesity, central obesity, and metabolic syndrome risk.