Name: VisceFat
Author: VisceFat

Question 1

Why is BMI not enough to assess health risk?

Accepted Answer

BMI doesn't account for body fat distribution. You can have normal BMI but still carry dangerous visceral fat around your organs. The US FDA recommends anthropometric measures like waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), which is a stronger predictor of excess visceral fat and its impact on metabolic and cardiovascular risk.

Question 2

How accurate is VisceFat compared to DEXA scans?

Accepted Answer

The underlying models are built on published meta-analyses, including a study of 1,250 participants comparing image-derived waist measurements to DEXA (R² = 0.91 for body-fat %). Accuracy ranges are shown with every reading so you know the estimate bounds.

Question 3

Is my photo stored or shared?

Accepted Answer

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 retained. We never store, share, or sell your images.

Question 4

What is WHtR and how is it different from BMI?

Accepted Answer

WHtR (Waist-to-Height Ratio) measures body fat distribution rather than total weight. Research shows keeping your waist less than half your height (WHtR < 0.5) significantly reduces cardiovascular and metabolic risk. WHtR outperforms BMI as a predictor of cardiovascular mortality, especially for identifying 'normal weight obesity'.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Yes. GLP-1 and GIP-GLP1 medications can cause loss of muscle mass along with fat. VisceFat lets you track body fat, visceral fat, and muscle mass over time so you can take appropriate lifestyle interventions like strength training and dietary changes. Always consult your healthcare practitioner before making any medication changes.

Question 6

Is VisceFat a medical device?

Accepted Answer

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 including GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide or tirzepatide. Always consult a healthcare practitioner for disease diagnosis and medication decisions.

Question 7

What research backs VisceFat's methodology?

Accepted Answer

Our 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 WHtR meta-analysis (Ashwell & Gibson, BMJ Open 2014).

Question 8

Can I export or delete my health data?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 9

What is the VisceFat standardized scan protocol?

Accepted Answer

VisceFat uses a structured capture protocol to keep weekly scans comparable. Stand ~2 metres from your phone 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 consistent waist reading). Scan in the morning after the toilet and before breakfast — bloating adds 2–3 cm to your waist. Breathe naturally. Use bright even front lighting (≥200 lux). The app shows a pre-scan checklist and records all conditions alongside your results for algorithm calibration.

Question 10

Why do scan distance and lighting matter so much for accuracy?

Accepted Answer

Waist circumference accuracy depends on the AI correctly segmenting your body silhouette. Poor lighting creates shadows that shift the detected waist outline. Wrong distance changes the apparent waist-to-height proportions and directly shifts your WHtR. Controlling both within consistent bounds each week makes your trend data reflect real body composition change rather than measurement noise. VisceFat records a lux estimate and distance category with every scan for calibration.