Many patients in tropical countries like Singapore are concerned about the appearance of their arms, often due to wearing short-sleeved or sleeveless clothing.
Arm fat can result from obesity and genetic factors, with some individuals naturally storing more fat in their arms than elsewhere.
Arm fat in women
Women tend to be more affected by arm fat than men because of different fat distribution patterns. In my assessment during patient consultation, I check the amount of fat, any loose skin or stretch marks, and the overall shape of the arms. Loose skin, commonly called “bingo wings,” can occur due to ageing or significant weight loss.
Addressing arm fat is challenging, as targeting specific body areas through exercise or weight loss is difficult. Both non-surgical and surgical options are available. Non-surgical methods, such as cryolipolysis, radiofrequency, and ultrasound, are less invasive but yield unpredictable results.
Liposuction is the most reliable surgical option, which effectively removes fat and contours the arms, helping tighten loose skin.
HIgh belly and arm fat may cause other medical conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases
Recent research has even suggested a link between belly fat and arm fat to increased risks of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, although these findings are still in the early stages.
A study of 412,691 individuals tracked over nine years found that about 8,224 participants developed neurodegenerative illnesses, primarily Alzheimer’s disease. At the study’s start, participants had an average age of 56, and researchers measured body composition, including lean mass, fat, grip strength, and bone density. The results showed that greater upper arm fat and abdominal fat increased the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Specifically, those with high abdominal fat had a 13% higher risk, and those with high arm fat faced an 18% higher risk, even after adjusting for factors like hypertension and diabetes. Strong muscle strength correlated with a 26% reduced risk of these disorders, while higher bone density and leg-dominant fat distribution also appeared protective. These findings support previous research linking central obesity to an increased risk of dementia.
Anyone concerned about their arm fat should consult a doctor for personalised advice and treatment options.
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