The circumference of the neck is an anthropometric datum used above all to evaluate the distribution of adipose tissue in the upper part of the body. In relation to its value a person is considered:
OVERWEIGHT if the circumference of the package is:
between 37 and 39.4 cm (man)
between 34 and 36.4 cm (woman)
OBESA if this value is:
≥ 39.5 cm (man)
≥ 36.6 cm (woman)
This is obviously indicative (Mike Tyson, for example, was certainly not obese, but wore a neck circumference of about 50 cm).
In obese people the circumference of the neck is considered pathological if it is greater than 43 cm (males) and 41 cm (females). Such values expose to a very strong risk of suffering repeated episodes of sleep apnea, with a consequent decline in daytime quality of life and snoring. A high neck circumference also predisposes to the metabolic syndrome, with an increase in coronary risk and mortality in general.
Values higher than normal can also be caused by alterations of the thyroid gland (in these cases a clear swelling of the front part of the neck is observed).
How do you measure it?
The circumference of the neck is detected by placing the metric tape just below the Adam's apple (also known as laryngeal prominence) and exerting a slight tension.
