Why is BMI not enough to assess health risk?

BMI does not account for body fat distribution. A person can have a normal BMI yet carry dangerous visceral fat around their organs — a pattern called 'normal weight obesity' or 'thin-fat' phenotype, affecting approximately 31% of normal-BMI adults. The US FDA recommends waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) as a stronger predictor of visceral fat and metabolic risk than BMI alone.

How accurate is VisceFat compared to DEXA scans?

The underlying models are validated against published meta-analyses including a study of 1,250 participants comparing image-derived waist measurements to DEXA (R²=0.91 for body fat %). Every reading includes accuracy ranges so you know the estimate bounds. A prospective DEXA validation pilot (n=200, 12 weeks) is currently underway.

Is my photo stored or shared?

No. On supported devices all analysis runs fully on-device and your photo never leaves your phone. On older devices photos are processed on a secure server and deleted immediately after analysis. No image is stored, shared, sold, or used for model training. Only the numerical output is retained.

What is WHtR and how is it different from BMI?

WHtR (Waist-to-Height Ratio) measures body fat distribution rather than total weight. Keeping your waist less than half your height (WHtR below 0.5) significantly reduces cardiovascular and metabolic risk. A large BMJ meta-analysis found WHtR outperforms BMI as a predictor of cardiovascular mortality, especially in identifying normal-weight individuals with hidden visceral fat.

Is VisceFat useful for people on GLP-1 or anti-obesity medications?

Yes. GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide/Ozempic/Wegovy, tirzepatide/Mounjaro/Zepbound) can cause loss of muscle mass alongside fat. VisceFat lets you track body fat, visceral fat, and lean mass over time so you can take appropriate lifestyle interventions like strength training. A dedicated GLP-1 longitudinal pilot study (n=50, 3–6 months) is underway. Always consult your healthcare practitioner for medication decisions.

Is VisceFat a medical device?

No. VisceFat is not a medical device. Body composition metrics are for wellness information only and must not be used to start, stop, or change any medication. Always consult a healthcare practitioner for diagnosis and treatment decisions.

What is the VisceFat standardized scan protocol?

Stand approximately 2 metres from your phone, placed at navel height on a stable surface. Wear form-fitting clothing (fitted t-shirt and leggings minimum; a crop or spaghetti-strap top for the most accurate waist reading). Scan in the morning after the toilet and before breakfast — bloating adds 2–3 cm to waist circumference. Use bright even front lighting of at least 200 lux. Breathe naturally and stand upright. The app shows a pre-scan checklist and records all conditions with every scan for algorithm calibration.

What research backs VisceFat's methodology?

VisceFat's methodology is grounded in four peer-reviewed frameworks: FINDRISC (AUC 0.85–0.87, Diabetes Care 2003), SCORE2 (C-index 0.739, European Heart Journal 2021, 677,684 participants), Fatty Liver Index (AUROC 0.85, BMC Gastroenterology 2006), and the WHtR meta-analysis by Ashwell & Gibson (BMJ Open 2014). Body fat % is validated against DEXA imaging (R²=0.91).

Can I export or delete my health data?

Yes. You can export your complete health history in JSON format or permanently delete all data with one tap. Deletion removes your profile, scans, goals, medical history, and consent logs. Biometric authentication is required. VisceFat is GDPR (EU), DPDPA 2023 (India), and CCPA (California) compliant.

How do I join the VisceFat FORMA research pilot?

Apply at viscefat.com/pilot. Complete the 3-step eligibility form (background, privacy review, research consent). Approved participants receive an invite code by email within 48 hours, which activates study mode in the VisceFat app. All 300 approved FORMA participants receive 3 months of free VisceFat Premium plus a Founding Member badge.

See body fat and health risk beyond the scale

Name: VisceFat
Rating: 4.8 (127 reviews)
Author: VisceFat

VisceFat estimates your visceral adiposity, total body fat and metabolic health indicators using a single photo. No wearables, no expensive scans, privacy first approach. Track your body composition and fat loss longitudinally throughout your weight loss journey.

Learn more about how it works

VAT Score

7.2

Moderate Risk

WtHR

0.51

Healthy

Body Fat

22.4%

Optimal Range

Muscle Mass

74.4%

Above Average