Acknowledgements

more weight and had a higher increase in WC than men [121]. Kahn's cohort study showed that quitting smoking was associated with approximately doubling the likelihood of WC gain compared with those who were current smokers or those who never smoked [122]. However, the increase in WC may be explained by the increase in weight; consequently, future studies

The role of smoking in increased overall obesity is well documented in the literature, while its relationship with AO has received less attention. However, current evidence suggests a causal relationship between smoking and fat distribution. Smoking increases the risk of AO and, among smokers, the number of cigarettes smoked per day was also positively associated with AO. We still need further evidence in order to understand the real impact of smoking cessation in the body composition. Thus, smoking should be avoided in order to prevent AO; current smokers should be informed that they are more prone to central fat accumulation and to the inherent additional health risks; the increase in unhealthy central fat after smoking cessation needs attention, mainly among women, who pay more attention to body shape and could

In this report, we have showed how demographic, socioeconomic, and behavioral characteristics influence the occurrence of AO in adults. Figure 1 depicts the mainly associated factors of AO in men and in women. Among women, the population group who is the most affected by AO, a higher prevalence is observed in individuals living in LMIC, who are older, multiparous, and in the menopausal transition, belong to the poorest strata, and have lower educational level, while, among men, the risk of AO is positively associated with social position, particularly in LMIC. The characteristics of women's reproductive life are highlighted in the

are needed to elucidate this issue.

84 Adiposity - Epidemiology and Treatment Modalities

avoid smoking cessation.

Figure 1. Causal pathway of abdominal obesity according to gender.

6. Conclusion

This chapter publication was supported by University of Vale do Rios dos Sinos. M.T.A. Olinto received research productivity grants from The Brazilian National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (grants 307257/2013-4)
