Comparison of Obesity/Psychological Disorders Comorbid between Older and Younger Adult Women

Abstract

Introduction: Epidemiologic data proposed a relationship between obesity and depression in older adults. We conducted this study to evaluate the association between obesity and depressive disorders, as well as a range of eating disorders in old women. Methods: From a total of 1477 clients referred to an outpatient clinic, 212 obese persons (97 persons 60+ and 115 persons 40 - 59 years of age) were enrolled. Data of demographics, comorbidities, anthropometrics, physical activity level, and diet, as well as, depressive and eating disorders were collected. Depressive and eating disorders were assessed using diagnostic structural interview based on DSM-IV-TR (Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder —fourth edition— Text version). BMI more than or equal to 30 was considered as obesity. Results: The prevalence of dysthymic disorder was significantly lower in older women compared to younger ( p = 0.026). Comparable but not significant results were observed for major depression disorder, Bulimia Nervosa, and eating disorders not otherwise specified. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that obese older women were less likely to suffer from Comorbid dysthymic disorder/obesity compared to younger.