From the article:
Using computed tomography (CT) images, the researchers acquired slices of the abdomen to measure visceral, subcutaneous and liver fat in 291 men. They found that visceral fat alone independently predicted risk of mortality.
“We’re trying to find out which factors are most associated with disease,” says Dr. Ross, noting that earlier studies have shown weight is not the most important indicator. “It’s possible to exercise and decrease your risk even though weight may stay the same.”