BEIJING, Sept. 24 (Xinhuanet) -- Results from a survey in 27 countries, including China, reveal that six out of ten physicians recognize abdominal fat as a significant risk factor for heart disease.

    However, only a minority of the public are aware of the waist size that puts them at risk for heart disease and less than one infive people can expect to have their waist circumference measured by their doctor.

    The "Shape of the Nations" survey was conducted in 27 countriesduring July 2005 among the general public and people identified asat risk for heart disease to assess knowledge and understanding ofthe growing risk of heart disease posed by excess abdominal fat.

    It was conducted to coincide with World Heart Day on September 25th 2005. Under this year's theme, "Healthy Weight, Healthy Shape", World Heart Day activities will encourage the world's population to lead a healthier lifestyle by increasing physical activity and further reducing the risk of heart disease through healthy nutrition, weight control and smoke-free living.

    In order to raise the awareness of abdominal obesity, one towerof the Great Wall was wrapped to give the impression of corpulence.

    Statistics also show that a high-risk waistline is more than 80cm for women and 90 cm for men in China. Enditem