Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between Body Mass Index (BMI) and depression levels among patients admitted to the family medicine outpatient clinic, as well as the sociodemographic factors influencing this relationship.
Method: This single-center, cross-sectional study was conducted with 205 individuals who applied to the Family Medicine Outpatient Clinic of Giresun University Training and Research Hospital between October 16, 2024, and April 16, 2025. The sample size was determined using G*Power analysis, and ethical approval was obtained with the decision number 16.10.2024/05. Participants underwent height and weight measurements and completed an 11-item questionnaire including sociodemographic information and the Beck Depression Inventory. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0, and a p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: In this study, no statistically significant relationship was found between BMI and depression. However, a weak positive correlation was observed between age and BMI, while a weak negative correlation was found between age and depression. Depression levels were higher among women and unmarried individuals. Married, less educated, and unemployed participants had significantly higher BMI values. In addition, individuals who engaged in regular physical activity had lower levels of depression.
Conclusion: In this study, no statistically significant relationship was found between BMI and depression levels. This result indicates that obesity and depression interact in a multidimensional manner influenced by individual differences. Therefore, holistic and multidisciplinary approaches encompassing both physical and mental health are recommended in primary care settings.
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The authors would like to appreciate the patients participation in this study.
| Primary Language | English |
|---|---|
| Subjects | Health Services and Systems (Other) |
| Journal Section | Research Article |
| Authors | |
| Submission Date | July 31, 2025 |
| Acceptance Date | November 16, 2025 |
| Early Pub Date | December 1, 2025 |
| Published in Issue | Year 2026 Issue: Advanced Online Publication |