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Association Between Body Mass Index and Depression, Anxiety, and Suicidality in University Students From Seven
Ching Sin Siau1, David Lester2, Bob Lew3
1Centre for Community Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Abstract:
Our study explored the link between body mass index (BMI) and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and suicidality among university students in China. We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 11 251 undergraduates from seven provinces. Body mass index, physical health status, economic status, depression and anxiety symptoms, and suicidality were self-reported using validated questionnaires. Multiple logistic regression models were fitted for males and females. Results showed that of 11 251 participants (mean age = 20.7 ± 1.3), 22.6% were with underweight, 6.1% with overweight, and 2.7% with obesity. Females with class III obesity had higher suicide risk (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.05) and suicide attempt history (aOR = 3.55). Males with overweight and class I obesity had lower odds of depressive symptoms. Suicide attempt history was associated with higher odds of overweight for males (aOR = 2.58). Clinicians and public health authorities should take into consideration the implications of overweight and obesity levels on suicidality.
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