Pants Size: A Simple Way to Detect Central Obesity Risk

The size of one’s trousers can serve as a simple alarm for detecting the risk of central obesity, a health issue whose prevalence continues to rise in Indonesia. Dr. Siti Nadia Tarmizi, M.Epid., Director of Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases at the Ministry of Health, explained that central obesity is more accurately identified through waist circumference rather than just the number on the scales. “When we talk about central obesity, the easiest way to see it is from the trouser size. If the size keeps increasing, that’s an alarm for us,” said Nadia, quoted on Thursday (26/3). Based on data from the 2023 Indonesian Health Survey (SKI), the prevalence of central obesity in the country has risen significantly from 31% in 2018 to 36.8% in 2023. The latest data from the 2025 Free Health Check programme even shows that 23.85% of adult participants were identified as having central obesity. Nadia highlighted the phenomenon where many people feel healthy because their weight appears normal, yet the fat distribution in the abdominal area has exceeded safe limits. “Sometimes people don’t feel fat, but their waist circumference is already above the limit. That’s what often goes unnoticed,” she added. This condition should not be underestimated because central obesity is the main trigger for various deadly non-communicable diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes. Considering that obesity is the result of long-term accumulation of consumption patterns and lifestyle, Nadia emphasised the importance of early detection and behavioural changes. The public is advised to monitor their waist circumference and Body Mass Index (BMI) at least once a year. “Small changes like reducing sugar, salt, and fat, as well as routine movement, can help lower the risk,” she concluded.