Higher odds of depressive symptomatology associated with obesity risk in Australian adolescents — ASN Events
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Higher odds of depressive symptomatology associated with obesity risk in Australian adolescents (#102)

Erin Hoare 1 2 , Lynne Millar 2 , Matthew Fuller-Tyskiewicz 3 , Helen Skouteris 3 , Melanie Nichols 2 , Felice Jacka 4 , Boyd Swinburn 2 5 , Cal Chikwendu 6 , Joy Terry 6 , Steven Allender 2
  1. School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
  2. WHO Collaborating Centre for Obesity Prevention, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
  3. School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
  4. School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
  5. Population Nutrition and Global Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
  6. Health Directorate, Australian Capital Territory Government, ACT, Australia

Introduction: Depression and obesity are both significant health concerns among adolescents. This study examined the associations between overweight/ obesity, key obesogenic risk factors (physical inactivity, sedentary behaviour, diet) and depressive symptomatology in an Australian adolescent population.

Methods: Baseline evaluation data from a community-based obesity prevention project in the Australian Capital Territory were used. In 2012, 800 students (440 females, 360 males) aged 11-14 years, from six secondary schools, completed a questionnaire that assessed physical activity, sedentary behaviour and dietary intake. Weight status was defined by WHO BMI z-score criteria. The Short Mood and Feelings Questionnaire (SMFQ) was completed and a cut-off score ≥10 indicated symptomatic depression. Logistic regression models were developed to estimate odds ratios for depressive symptomology.

Results: Among the sample, 27% were overweight/obese and 25% reported depressive symptomatology. After controlling for potential confounders, high levels of sedentary behaviours were associated with increased depressive symptomatology in both males (OR 1.22; p<0.05) and females (OR 1.12; p<0.05). Also, females who consumed greater amounts of sweet drinks were also more likely to report depressive symptomatology (OR 1.18; p<0.05). Significantly increased odds of depressive symptomatology were found among males who were overweight/obese (OR 1.83; p<0.05), but not females.

Conclusion: The relationship between obesity, obesogenic risk factors and depressive symptomatology suggest that mental health and physical health are both important targets for community-based interventions. These findings are both important targets for community-based interventions. These findings may be used to inform strategies and clinical practice guidelines for the prevention and treatment of obesity and depression.