LEP and Hypertension: Second, it seems that weight is more strongly associated than abdominal obesity with hypertension and blood pressure, because an increase in body weight (BMI) increases body fluid volume, peripheral resistance (eg, hyperinsulinemia, cell membrane alteration, and hyperactivity of the renin-angiotensin system leading to functional constriction and structural hypertrophy), and cardiac output.32 The positive association between WC and hypertension could be the result of excess visceral fat that leads to high levels of leptin and inflammatory cytokines, insulin resistance, and lipid disorders.