Body Roundness Index (BRI) and Its Impact on Mortality Risk

BRI and Death

A groundbreaking study involving 32,995 US adults has uncovered a significant relationship between Body Roundness Index (BRI) and mortality. The results reveal a U-shaped relationship, where both very low and very high BRI values are associated with increased mortality risk.

Key Study Findings

BRI and Death

Key Results Overview

  • People with a BRI below 3.4 had a 25% increased mortality risk compared to the reference group (BRI 4.5-5.5)
  • For BRI above 6.9, mortality risk increased by 49%
  • The median follow-up period was almost 10 years

Risk Groups

The relationship was particularly pronounced in:

  • People over 45 years
  • Men
  • Smokers
  • People with higher income (PIR ≥ 1)

Temporal Development

The average BRI in the US population increased steadily from 1999 to 2018:

  • 1999: 4.80
  • 2018: 5.62
  • Biennial increase: 0.95%

Detailed Analysis of the BRI-Mortality Relationship

The study identified an optimal BRI range between 4.5 and 5.5. Both lower and higher values were associated with increased health risks. This U-shaped relationship persisted even after accounting for various influencing factors.

Increased Risk with Low BRI

A low BRI (below 3.4) was particularly associated with increased mortality risk in older adults over 65 years. This could be attributed to the following factors:

  • Malnutrition
  • Reduced physical activity
  • Muscle atrophy
  • General frailty

Risks with High BRI

A high BRI (above 6.9) was associated with a particularly elevated mortality risk. The reasons for this are diverse:

  • Increased risk of cardiovascular diseases
  • Metabolic disorders
  • Increased cancer risk
  • Insulin resistance

Significance for Clinical Practice

BRI proves to be a valuable tool for risk assessment, as compared to BMI it:

  • Better represents body fat distribution
  • More accurately captures visceral fat
  • Shows tighter confidence intervals
  • Demonstrates higher sensitivity

Important Notice

These results are based on US data. Optimal BRI ranges may vary by ethnicity. Always consult your doctor for health-related concerns.