Study challenges idea that lower BMI shields smokers from fat-associated health risks

https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2020-07/vumc-sci072720.php

News Release 27-Jul-2020
Vanderbilt University Medical Center


Some smokers might rationalize continuing to smoke because of lower body weight often associated with the habit. However, Vanderbilt University Medical Center investigators have determined that even with a lower body mass index (BMI), smokers have a higher risk of depositing fat in and around organs and tissues compared to those who never smoked.

This is concerning because excess fat, also known as adipose tissue, deposited in the abdomen and around organs such as the liver and non-adipose tissues including muscles, may disrupt their normal functions and cause health problems. This disruption is associated with a higher risk for health complications such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

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