Summary

Body mass index and waist circumference are used for obesity diagnosis and screening of visceral fat; however, their evidence in older adults is insufficient. This study investigated the age-specific association of body mass index and waist circumference with metabolic diseases, assessing their applicability as diagnostic criteria for individuals aged ≥65 years. Participants with obesity based on body mass index and waist circumference exhibited a high risk of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia among those aged 18–74 years and men aged ≥75 years. This study contributes to the early prevention and control of metabolic diseases.