Impact of Inpatient Treatment for Obesity in Patients with Comorbid Psychiatric Disorders

Obesity is a global health problem causing millions of deaths from noncommunicable diseases. Individuals with obesity are also at increased risk for mental disorders, such as depression (DEP) and binge eating (BED). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an inpatient lifestyle-based intervention program for the treatment of obesity in persons with and without DEP and BED. This is a retrospective cohort study involving patients enrolled in a specialized inpatient hospital facility for the treatment of obesity. Participants underwent a long-term program composed of a low-calorie diet and intensive lifestyle changes. Data from 997 adult patients were included. Participants were divided into four groups: a depression group (DG), binge-eating disorder group (BG), depression and binge-eating disorder group (DBG), and a control group (CG). Anthropometric data were obtained at admission and discharge. Most participants were females, were sedentary, and were hospitalized for more than 3 months. No between-group differences were observed among DEP, BED, DEP + BED, and CG. Treatment duration was positively associated with reductions in weight and BMI in all patients. In conclusion, patients with DEP and BED with DEP + BED presented significant reductions in BMI and waist circumference, as well as the CG, and reduction in body weight was directly associated with the length of the intervention.