Psychosocial Functionality and Predictors in Bariatric Surgery Candidates

Obesity is a critical global health issue with increasing prevalence. Although bariatric surgery is effective, relapses are common. Pre-bariatric functioning may significantly influence these relapses.

To evaluate psychosocial functioning in individuals undergoing bariatric surgery, examining depressive symptoms, self-esteem, body satisfaction, disordered eating symptoms, and sociodemographic factors. This cross-sectional study identifies predictors of psychosocial functioning to guide interventions for sustained postoperative well-being.

The study included 175 individuals (81.7% female) attending routine preoperative evaluations at Kocaeli University Faculty of Medicine. Most participants (94.3%) were morbidly obese (body mass index (BMI) ≥40). Psychosocial functioning was assessed using the Obesity-Related Problems Scale (OP-S), with 51.4% scoring in the severe range (≥60). Depressive symptoms (Beck Depression Inventory (BDI)), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), body satisfaction Scale (BSS), and Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) were also evaluated. Correlation and regression analyses identified predictors of psychosocial functioning.

The mean OP-S score was 55.81 ± 24.77. OP-S scores were significantly correlated with depressive symptoms (r = 0.462, p = 0.001), disordered eating symptoms (r = 0.410, p = 0.002), self-esteem (r = -0.322, p = 0.004), and body satisfaction (r = -0.240, p = 0.018). Regression analysis identified depressive symptoms (β = 0.24, p = 0.02) and disordered eating symptoms (β = 0.20, p = 0.03) as significant predictors.

Depressive symptoms and disordered eating symptoms are predictors of psychosocial functioning among individuals undergoing bariatric surgery. Addressing these factors through psychiatric evaluations can enhance psychosocial functioning, reduce relapse risk, and improve quality of life. Multidisciplinary care is essential in bariatric treatment.