Evaluation of the Relationship Between Body Mass Index and Depression Levels of Patients Applying to the Family Medicine Outpatient Clinic
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and depression levels among patients admitted to a family medicine outpatient clinic and to examine the sociodemographic factors that may influence this relationship. Methods: This single-center, cross-sectional study included 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. Participants underwent standardized height and weight measurements for BMI calculation and completed an 11-item questionnaire including sociodemographic characteristics and the Beck Depression Inventory. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26.0. Correlation and comparative analyses were conducted as appropriate, and a p-value<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: Although no statistically significant relationship was identified between BMI and depression levels, the findings suggest that obesity and depression interact in a multidimensional manner influenced by individual factors. Therefore, holistic and multidisciplinary approaches addressing both physical and mental health should be implemented in primary care.
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References
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