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Apple Vs. Pear Shape & Risks

A person's body shape is sometimes compared to an apple or a pear, depending upon the location of body fat. Specific health risks and diseases are associated with each type of body shape.

  1. Definitions

    • The apple shaped body carries more fat above the belt line, and has very little waist definition. The apple often has a full chest and thin legs. A person with a pear shaped body carries more fat below the belt line, and has a defined waist. The pear may have a thin upper body and full hips.

    Fat Types

    • According to Dr. Marie Savard, author of "Apples & Pears: The Body Shape Solution to Weight Loss and Wellness," there are two types of fat. The type of fat a person carries determines her health risks. Visceral fat, found in apple shaped bodies, surrounds the abdominal organs. Subcutaneous fat is found under the skin.

    Apple Risks

    • Those with apple shaped bodies have a greater risk of heart disease, breast cancer, diabetes, gallbladder problems, high blood pressure and colorectal cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic.

    Pear Risks

    • Pear shaped individuals are more likely to have osteoporosis, varicose veins and menopausal symptoms, according to Marie Savard, M.D.

    Blood Clots

    • The American Heart Association says women who are pear shaped have a higher risk of life threatening blood clots. For men the opposite is true; the apple shape carries more risk.

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