The Claim

Higher ratios of visceral to gluteofemoral fat (VAT/GFAT) and abdominal subcutaneous to gluteofemoral fat (ASAT/GFAT) are associated with an increased risk of polycystic ovary syndrome, indicating that a pattern of greater abdominal fat relative to hip and thigh fat is linked to higher susceptibility to PCOS.

Source: Beyond BMI: A Mendelian Randomization Study of the Causal Effects and Mediating Pathways of Regional Adipose Tissue Depots on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

What the research says

Not yet evaluated

We are still looking at what the research says.

Supports
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Challenges
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These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.

Correlation
1 study reviewed
In plain English

People with more fat around the abdomen compared to fat around the hips and thighs have a higher likelihood of developing polycystic ovary syndrome.

See the scientific wording

Higher ratios of visceral to gluteofemoral fat (VAT/GFAT) and abdominal subcutaneous to gluteofemoral fat (ASAT/GFAT) are associated with increased polycystic ovary syndrome risk, suggesting that an unfavorable fat distribution pattern — more abdominal fat relative to hip and thigh fat — elevates PCOS susceptibility.

What the research says

1 study

  1. Study: Beyond BMI: A Mendelian Randomization Study of the Causal Effects and Mediating Pathways of Regional Adipose Tissue Depots on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

    This study found that people with more fat around their belly compared to their hips and thighs are more likely to have PCOS, while more fat in the hips and thighs seems to protect against it. It’s not just about being overweight—it’s where the fat is stored.

Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies

Fit Body Science verdict — we translate health claims into clear verdicts backed by peer-reviewed research.

Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.