Obesity is associated with depression in Malaysian schoolchildren: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Obesity is associated with depression in Malaysian schoolchildren: A cross-sectional study Mohd Said Nurumal1, Rohulizzat Zainal Abidin1, Wisam Nabeel Ibrahim2, Muhammad Lokman Md Isa1, Muhammad Kamil Che Hasan1* 1. Kulliyyah of Nursing, International Islamic University Malaysia, Bandar Indera Mahkota Campus, Kuantan 25200, Pahang Darul Makmur 2. Department of Biomedical sciences, College of Health sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar *E-mail: mkamil@iium.edu.my Abstract Background: Overweight and obesity, which may lead to depression, have become prevalent among children worldwide. Hence, this study aimed to measure obesity and depression among schoolchildren in Kuantan. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in three different primary schools in Kuantan by purposive sampling. With consent from their parents/guardians, participants were given a self-administered questionnaire. Demographics and anthropometric measurement data were self-reported on the basis of the school records. Furthermore, body mass index was calculated. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0, and chi-square and correlation tests were conducted for the variables. Results: Among the 300 schoolchildren who responded, 14.3% were underweight, 37.7% were normal, 11% were overweight, and 37% were obese. Statistically, obesity and ethnicity, as well as obesity and sex, were not associated. Conversely, obesity and age, as well as obesity and depression, were significantly associated. Conclusion: Depression is associated with obesity among schoolchildren. Hence, a special approach for designing and implementing prevention programs is necessary to reduce the risk of obesity-led depression and other forms of comorbidity later in life. Keywords: child, cross-sectional study, depression, Malaysia, mental health, obesity