Understanding the relationship between quality of life, anthropometric measures and mental health in individuals with obesity.

Abstract

Background: Obesity is a chronic medical condition caused by an excessive accumulation of body fat that represents a major risk factor for public health. The relationship between obesity, quality of life (QoL) and mental health has been examined in some previous literature. However, the studies found have not linked anthropometric variables with QoL factors, as they have used generic questionnaires.

Objective: The present study aimed to analyse the influence of anthropometric variables on the QoL of people with obesity and examine its relationship with psychological variables.

Methods: It was a cross-sectional study composed of 77 Spanish participants adults (M = 45.12 years; SD = 10.29) collected from two different research projects. The measurements were carried out in the Faculty of Health Sciences of the University of Alicante (Spain), including sociodemographic variables, anthropometric data and psychological questionnaires.

Results: The finding demonstrated the relationship between anthropometric variables and all QoL factors. Also, individuals with lower QoL exhibit more symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress and are more prone to emotional eating.

Conclusions: The findings highlight the necessity of integrating psychological support into obesity treatment strategies, as well as the importance of using QoL questionnaires specific to people with obesity.