Visceral adiposity index associated with behavioral and inflammatory parameters in adults: a population based study.

INTRODUCTION: the visceral adiposity index (VAI) is an indicator of fat distribution and function which is considered a predictor of cardiometabolic risk.

OBJECTIVE: analyze the factors associated with VAI in Brazilian adults.

METHODS: a cross-sectional population-based study was conducted with 854 adults, in Viçosa, MG, Brazil. A questionnaire was applied and anthropometric measurements, body composition and biochemical data were collected. Ordinal logistic regression was used to evaluate the factors associated with VAI.

RESULTS: the increase in percentage of fat, uric acid concentration and ultra-sensitive C reactive protein in the blood was positively associated with VAI in males. The level of physical activity in leisure was negatively associated. Among women, the increase in age, neck circumference, sitting time of more than 300 minutes, increased serum uric acid concentration and ultra-sensitive C reactive protein were associated with VAI.

CONCLUSION: except for age, all other factors associated with VAI are modifiable, suggesting that adopting early intervention measures that promote changes in habits and alter the risk of increased visceral adiposity and consequently the appearance of comorbidities should be encouraged.