This simple neck measurement may reveal hidden heart risks

While a thick neck may indicate physical strength, such as that of athletes in contact sports, research suggests it may also be a sign of hidden health risks.

Why does neck size matter?

BMI calculates body fat by comparing weight to height, but it doesn’t always paint an accurate picture. A muscular athlete may have a high BMI without carrying excess fat. This is where measuring neck size can provide additional clues about what’s going on inside the body.

Studies have found that individuals with larger necks relative to their body size are more likely to develop serious health problems. The reason lies in the distribution of fat, especially in the upper part of the body.

Fat stored around the upper torso releases fatty acids into the bloodstream, which can interfere with how the body regulates cholesterol, blood sugar, and heart rhythm. In fact, neck circumference serves as a clear indicator of visceral fat, the harmful kind that accumulates around internal organs.

Association with heart disease and other conditions

The evidence linking neck size to health outcomes is compelling. People with thick necks show higher rates of cardiovascular disease, including high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure.

Atrial fibrillation is of particular concern because it causes an irregular heartbeat and irregular blood flow, which increases the risk of blood clots and stroke. Over time, this irregular rhythm can stress the heart and cause it to fail.

Neck circumference is also linked to coronary heart disease, as narrowed arteries reduce the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart.

More than just heart health

The risks don’t stop at cardiovascular problems. Larger neck size is associated with a greater likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes, both of which can lead to long-term complications such as nerve damage, vision loss, and limb amputation.

Sleep disorders are another major concern. A thicker neck is a known risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This not only leads to extreme fatigue during the day, but also puts additional strain on the heart and blood vessels. People with sleep apnea are also more likely to have accidents caused by overexertion.

When neck size becomes a warning

So, how big is too big? Research suggests that men with a neck circumference of 17 inches (43 cm) or more, and women with a neck circumference of 14 inches (35.5 cm) or more, face increased health risks.

Perhaps most surprising is that these risks are not limited to overweight people. Even individuals with a normal BMI may be at risk if their neck measurements exceed these thresholds. For every additional centimeter beyond this range, the risk of hospitalization and premature death increases.

taking measures

If your neck measurement drops above these levels, there is no need to worry, but it is worth noting. Neck size represents only one part of your overall health profile, yet it can reveal important information that other metrics may ignore.

The positive news is that neck circumference can change with improved lifestyle. Regular cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and adequate sleep contribute to improved metabolic health. Eating a diet rich in vegetables, fruits and legumes supports weight management and reduces unhealthy fat storage.

How to measure your neck

Checking your neck size is simple. Use a flexible measuring tape and wrap it around the narrowest part of your neck, keeping the tape snug but not too tight. The process takes only a few seconds.

A simple measurement with a lot of meaning

This quick check can highlight potential risks that traditional metrics may miss. While neck circumference should not replace established health assessments, it provides a valuable, easy-to-use tool for understanding cardiovascular and metabolic health.

In our search for better ways to predict and prevent disease, some of the most revealing clues turn out to be right in front of us. Your neck may quietly reflect more about your health than you think — and it’s worth paying attention to.