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Multidisciplinary Approach to Obesity Management: A Case Report
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Interventions targeting comorbid depression and overweight/obesity: A systematic review
Bing Cao1, Jiatong Xu2, Ruonan Li2
1Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality, Faculty of Psychology, Ministry of Education, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, PR China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, PR China.
Journal of Affective Disorders
|July 25, 2022
Summary
This review found limited evidence for treating obesity and depression together. However, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with lifestyle changes, certain supplements, antidepressants, and anti-diabetic drugs show promise for this common comorbidity.
Area of Science:
- Medical research
- Psychiatry
- Public health
Background:
- Overweight/obesity and depression frequently co-occur, sharing underlying biological, social, and economic factors.
- This systematic review is the first to synthesize literature on interventions for this specific comorbidity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review and synthesize existing research on the effectiveness of interventions for individuals with comorbid overweight/obesity and depression.
Main Methods:
- A systematic search of multiple databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, etc.) was conducted up to November 2021.
- Included studies reported on pharmacological, psychological, or dietary interventions targeting both overweight/obesity and depression.
Main Results:
- 19 studies (15 RCTs, 4 uncontrolled) involving 3408 participants were analyzed.
- Evidence is insufficient for definitive evidence-based treatments for this dual condition.
- Combined cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and lifestyle interventions, nutritional supplements, antidepressants, and anti-diabetic agents showed some efficacy.
Conclusions:
- Concurrent management of depression and overweight/obesity is supported by current data.
- Further research is needed to evaluate interventions in real-world settings for patients with multiple chronic conditions.
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