In HIV patients with belly fat who responded to tesamorelin, denser visceral fat (on CT scans) was associated with less visceral fat area, showing that fat quality and quantity are related.
Scientific Claim
In people living with HIV with central adiposity who responded to tesamorelin treatment, changes in visceral adipose tissue density were negatively correlated with changes in visceral fat area (r=-0.44, p<0.001), indicating that higher density corresponds to lower fat quantity.
Original Statement
“VAT: r=−0.44, p<0.001”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The study design supports correlational claims, and the language 'negatively correlated' accurately describes the observed relationship.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
Tesamorelin improves fat quality independent of changes in fat quantity
When people with HIV took tesamorelin, their belly fat got less in amount but became denser and healthier — meaning less fat packed into smaller, better cells.