Your neck could be telling you more about your health than you realize. Health experts warn that neck circumference is linked to serious conditions like heart failure, type 2 diabetes, and sleep apnea — even in people with a normal BMI.

For years, doctors relied mainly on Body Mass Index (BMI) to assess health risks. Now, researchers say neck thickness may be a stronger indicator of hidden fat deposits in the upper body.

Unlike visible fat, this type of fat surrounds vital organs, releasing fatty acids that can disrupt cholesterol, blood sugar regulation, and heart rate.

Health risks linked to a thick neck

Studies show that people with a thick neck are more likely to develop:

High blood pressure and atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat)
Heart failure and coronary artery disease
Type 2 diabetes and metabolic issues
Sleep apnea and fatigue-related risks, including accidents

Doctors warn that irregular heartbeats caused by excess fat around the neck can increase the risk of strokes and long-term heart damage.

What is considered a thick neck?

Experts define a thick neck as 17 inches or more in men and 14 inches or more in women. Even small increases beyond this threshold raise the risk of hospitalization and early death, regardless of overall weight.

How to lower the risk

Doctors recommend:

Cardio and weight training to reduce upper body fat
Adequate sleep to support metabolic health
A balanced diet rich in legumes, fruits, and vegetables

Your neck may be a simple yet powerful clue about your health. While BMI is still widely used, paying attention to neck circumference could help detect health problems earlier and encourage lifestyle changes to prevent serious conditions.