Body mass index and health-related quality of life among young Swiss men

Analysis of the effect of BMI on depression and anxiety among older adults in China: the mediating role of ADL and IADL

Background

Anxiety and depression are serious psychological and public health issues among the older adults. Currently, there is a lack of understanding of the relationship between Body Mass Index (BMI) and anxiety or depression symptoms in the older adult population in China. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of BMI on anxiety and depression through correlation analysis in different subgroups and to examine the potential chain mediating effects of Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) between BMI and symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Methods

From the CLHLS database conducted in 2017-2018, data regarding height, weight, anxiety symptoms, depression symptoms, as well as demographic, socioeconomic, behavioral, and health-related characteristics were collected. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to explore the impact of BMI on anxiety and depression symptoms. Finally, the SPSS macro process was utilized to test the multiple mediating effects of ADL and IADL between BMI and anxiety or depression symptoms.

Results

After screening, a final sample of 9,098 Chinese older adult individuals aged 65 and above was selected. Among them, 1,074 cases (11.8%) exhibited anxiety symptoms, 1,458 cases (16.0%) exhibited depressive symptoms. Compared to normal BMI, the adjusted analysis showed that underweight in Chinese older adult individuals was significantly associated with anxiety (OR = 1.316, p = 0.004) and depression (OR = 1.232, p = 0.013). This relationship was found to be more significant in males, individuals aged 80 and above, unmarried individuals, and those residing in town. ADL and IADL played a chain-mediated role between BMI and anxiety symptoms in the older adult. BMI not only had a direct effect on anxiety symptoms in the older adult (effect = -0.0159; SE = 0.0066; 95%CI: LL = -0.0288, UL = -0.0031), but also influenced them indirectly through two pathways: the independent mediating role of IADL (effect = -0.0010; SE = 0.0005; 95%CI: LL = -0.0018, UL = -0.0003) and the chain-mediated role of ADL and IADL (effect = -0.0012; SE = 0.0004; 95%CI: LL = -0.0020, UL = -0.0006).

Conclusion

In the older adult individuals in China, underweight is associated with an increased risk of anxiety and depression symptoms. Improving the underweight condition of Chinese older adult individuals can reduce their ADL and IADL limitations, thereby benefiting their mental health.

The association between body mass index and health-related quality of life in the 2017 and 2018 health survey of England data: A cross-sectional observational analysis

AIM

To provide an updated estimate of the association between body mass index (BMI) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among the general population in England and to identify population subgroups with the highest potential utility gains from obesity interventions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The sample included 12 158 adults with valid HRQoL and BMI data from the 2017 and 2018 Health Survey for England. Robust standard error linear regression, controlling for demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, lifestyle behaviours and obesity-related comorbidities, was used for the baseline analysis. Robustness checks assessed the impact of (a) estimator selection; (b) model specifications; (c) statistical outliers at high BMI; (d) potential BMI measurement error; and (e) data pooling.

RESULTS

The study found a significant association between HRQoL and BMI, which exhibited an inverted U-shaped relationship. The mean HRQoL peaked at 25.7 kg/m2 in men and 22.6 kg/m2 in women and was reduced in the underweight, overweight and obesity BMI ranges. Sensitivity analyses reported similar coefficients, suggesting a robust model specification.

CONCLUSIONS

Reduced HRQoL beyond optimal BMI underlines the importance of maintaining a normal BMI range for overall health. The rising prevalence of class III obesity is a major public health concern given its disproportionate impact on health, health care utilization and costs. Obesity management is key to preventing the reduction in HRQoL associated with obesity-related comorbidities, and this analysis supports the development of targeted policies and population health initiatives for people with class III obesity.

The association between BMI and self-reported health among a Brazilian sample: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association between Body Mass Index (BMI) and self-rated health status among a representative sample of the Brazilian population.

METHODS

This study consists of a secondary analysis of the existing 2019 Brazilian National Health Survey (PNS). Logistic regression models were then used to examine the association between self-reported health status and BMI, while controlling for obesity-related medical conditions and socio-demographic characteristics.

RESULTS

The representative sample included 34,021 men and 34,430 women, comprising a total sample of 68,451. Men living with obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) had, on average, a lower self-reported health status score (OR = 0.69, p < 0.01) compared to men within a healthy weight BMI range (18.5-25 kg/m2). Women living with obesity had, on average, a lower self-reported health status score (OR = 0.56, p < 0.01) compared to women within a healthy weight BMI range (18.5-25 kg/m2). There was also a statistically significant negative association (p < 0.01) between our obesity-related medical conditions and self-reported health for men and women. We also find some evidence of a non-linear association between BMI and health status for men.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicate that there is a statistically significant negative association between BMI and self-reported health for Brazilian men and women living with obesity. These findings reinforce the importance of addressing this growing public health challenge and the value of preventive measures and effective public health programs that focus on improving overall health and quality of life for individuals living with obesity.

Anthropometric Predictors of Health-Related Quality of Life in Obese Patients Attending a Tertiary Hospital in Nnewi, South-East Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Obesity as a disorder with excess body fat directly decreases quality of life. While Body Mass Index (BMI) has been used largely in health studies as a measure of obesity, it is largely unable to differentiate between body fat and lean body mass, hence other anthropometric measures can be used to assess body fat.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association of anthropometric indicators with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in obese adults.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study of obese adults (BMI ≥30kg/m2) attending the general outpatient clinic was conducted over four months. The quality of life was assessed using the short form-36 (SF-36) questionnaire. The anthropometric indicators used were BMI, waist circumference (WC), waist hip ratio (WHR), and waist-height ratio (WHtR).

RESULTS

Physical component summary (PCS) was significantly related to BMI, WHtR, and WC. After adjusting for co-variables (gender, age, occupation, and marital status), they remained significantly associated with PCS. Mental component summary (MCS) was significantly related to BMI, WHtR, and WC. After adjusting for the known determinants of HRQoL, only BMI remained significantly associated with MCS (P = -0.004; r = -0.146). When all the indicators were included in the same regression model, no anthropometric indicator was significantly related to MCS while only WHtR was significantly associated with PCS (P = 0.001; r = -0.465).

CONCLUSION

HRQoL in obese patients is related to measures of body fat. The physical and mental components of health-related quality of life are correlated differently with the various anthropometric measures of obesity. The WHtR was found to be an independent predictor of the physical component of HRQoL.

Gender-Specific Factors Associated with Health-Related Quality of Life in Obese Korean Older Adults: Evidence from the 2020 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Given the increasing aging population in South Korea, the quality of life of older adults must be ensured. This cross-sectional descriptive study investigated the gender-specific factors associated with health-related quality of life in obese older adults aged 65 years and above based on Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHNES) 2020 data. In total, 507 obese Korean older adults participated in the 8th KNHNES. Chi-square tests and logistic regression analysis were performed to determine the variation in health-related quality of life according to socioeconomic and health-related factors and assess their inter-relationships. The influencing factors of health-related quality of life in obese Korean older adults were national health insurance (odds ratio (OR) = 1.02, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.40–2.21), private health insurance (OR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.28–0.75), arthritis (OR = 6.64, 95% CI: 2.57–17.14), and good dietary lifestyle (OR = 0.07, 95% CI: 0.05–0.93) in men; and private health insurance (OR = 2.66, 95% CI: 1.05–6.72), arthritis (OR = 2.81, 95% CI: 1.44–5.51), and physical activity (OR = 4.33, 95% CI: 1.71–10.94) affected health-related quality of life in women. The importance of health behaviors should be considered in the development of health programs and interventions for improving the quality of life of older adults.

Determinants of health-related quality of life in young adults living with perinatally acquired HIV infection in Botswana

Background

Due to the successful antiretroviral therapy (ART) programme in Botswana, large numbers of perinatally HIV-infected adolescents are emerging into young adulthood. Young adulthood is a critical period of human development. However, there is lack of information on the factors affecting the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of young adults living with perinatally acquired HIV (YALPH) in Botswana.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to assess the HRQOL and its determinants among YALPH who were enrolled on ART at Botswana-Baylor Children’s Clinical Centre of Excellence in Gaborone, Botswana.

Method

A cross-sectional study assessed the HRQOL of 509 YALPH aged 18–30 years using the WHOQOL-HIV BREF. Data about other variables of interest were abstracted from medical records. Bivariate analyses were performed using t and Chi-square tests to determine the associations between demographic and clinical variables and general HRQOL. The variables that were associated with the general HRQOL at P-value < 0.1 were included in the multivariable analysis using the logistic regression approach.

Results

The majority of participants had good general HRQOL (78.4%). The highest mean HRQOL score was in the Physical domain (5.4 [± 2.9]) and the lowest in the Environment domain (13.8 [± 2.7]). The factors that were significantly associated with the general HRQOL included: level of education attained (P = 0.012), employment status (P = 0.069), viral load suppression (P = 0.073) and self-reported illness (P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Interventions that effectively increase educational attainment, employment opportunities, ART adherence, and prevention or management of illness are needed to promote good HRQOL among YALPH in Botswana.

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Versus Sleeve Gastrectomy in Young Adults: a Dutch Registry Study

BACKGROUND

The most commonly performed bariatric procedures worldwide are Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG), yet outcomes following these procedures in young adults are limited. Therefore, the objective of this study was to compare weight loss outcomes between RYGB and SG in young adults.

METHODS

This is a nationwide retrospective cohort study of young adults, aged 18-25 years, who underwent RYGB or SG between 2015 and 2019, with data from the Dutch Audit Treatment of Obesity (DATO). The primary outcome was weight loss expressed as percentage total weight loss (%TWL) in a period of 3 years after surgery. Secondary outcomes were the incidence of complications (< 30 days) and progression of obesity-related comorbidities.

RESULTS

In total, 2313 patients were included, 1246 in the RYGB group and 1067 in the SG group. Percentage TWL was significantly higher in the RYGB group compared to the SG group at 1, 2, and 3 years after surgery (respectively 2.4%, 2.9%, and 3.3% higher, p < 0.001). RYGB was associated with an on-average 2.75 higher %TWL compared to SG in females (p < 0.001), although this was not seen in males (β = 0.63, p = 0.514). No differences were found in the incidence of complications, nor the progression of obesity-related comorbidities except for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). There was more improvement or resolution of GERD in the RYGB group (95.2% vs. 56.3%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Similar numbers of RYGB and SG were performed in young adults, whereas RYGB was associated with greater weight loss in the short- and midterm, particularly in females.

Smoking, Obesity, and Disability Benefits or Litigation Are Not Associated with Clinically Important Reductions in Physical Functioning After Intramedullary Nailing of Tibial Shaft Fractures: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Forty percent of long bone fractures involve the tibia. These fractures are associated with prolonged recovery and may adversely affect patients' long-term physical functioning; however, there is limited evidence to inform what factors influence functional recovery in this patient population.

QUESTION/PURPOSE

In a secondary analysis of a previous randomized trial, we asked: What fracture-related, demographic, social, or rehabilitative factors were associated with physical function 1 year after reamed intramedullary nailing of open or closed tibial shaft fractures?

METHODS

This is a secondary (retrospective) analysis of a prior randomized trial (Trial to Re-evaluate Ultrasound in the Treatment of Tibial Fractures; TRUST trial). In the TRUST trial, 501 patients with unilateral open or closed tibial shaft fractures were randomized to self-administer daily low-intensity pulsed ultrasound or use a sham device, of which 15% (73 of 501) were not followed for 1 year due to early study termination as a result of futility (no difference between active and sham interventions). Of the remaining patients, 70% (299 of 428) provided full data. All fractures were fixed using reamed (298 of 299) or unreamed (1 of 299) intramedullary nailing. Thus, we excluded the sole fracture fixed using unreamed intramedullary nailing. The co-primary study outcomes of the TRUST trial were time to radiographic healing and SF-36 physical component summary (SF-36 PCS) scores at 1-year. SF-36 PCS scores range from 0 to 100, with higher scores being better, and the minimum clinically important difference (MCID) is 5 points. In this secondary analysis, based on clinical and biological rationale, we selected factors that may be associated with physical functioning as measured by SF-36 PCS scores. All selected factors were inserted simultaneously into a multivariate linear regression analysis.

RESULTS

After adjusting for potentially confounding factors, such as age, gender, and injury severity, we found that no factor showed an association that exceeded the MCID for physical functioning 1 year after intramedullary nailing for tibial shaft fractures. The independent variables associated with lower physical functioning were current smoking status (mean difference -3.0 [95% confidence interval -5 to -0.5]; p = 0.02), BMI > 30 kg/m2 (mean difference -3.0 [95% CI -5.0 to -0.3]; p = 0.03), and receipt of disability benefits or involvement in litigation, or plans to be (mean difference -3.0 [95% CI -5.0 to -1]; p = 0.007). Patients who were employed (mean difference 4.6 [95% CI 2.0 to 7]; p < 0.001) and those who were advised by their surgeon to partially or fully bear weight postoperatively (mean difference 2.0 [95% CI 0.1 to 4.0]; p = 0.04) were associated with higher physical functioning. Age, gender, fracture severity, and receipt of early physical therapy were not associated with physical functioning at 1-year following surgical fixation.

CONCLUSION

Among patients with tibial fractures, none of the factors we analyzed, including smoking status, receipt of disability benefits or involvement in litigation, or BMI, showed an association with physical functioning that exceeded the MCID.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, therapeutic study.

Quality of life and its relationship with different anthropometric indicators in adults with obesity

Abtract Introduction: Obesity compromises the quality of life. However, few studies have investigated the influence of different anthropometric indicators on the quality of life of this population. Objective: We aimed to correlate the physical and mental components of quality of life and verify its association with different anthropometric indicators in adults with obesity. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in adults with obesity [body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m²]. The quality of life was investigated using the SF-36 questionnaire, with scores ranging from 0 (worst-case scenario) to 100 (best scenario for the outcome). The anthropometric indicators used were BMI, waist circumference, waist/height ratio (WHR), and lean and fat body mass. For analysis, Spearman’s correlation and crude and adjusted linear regression for sociodemographic variables were used. Results: A total of 75 subjects (nfemales = 47; µage= 34.8 ± 7.1 years) were included, and their means of the physical and mental components were 64.5 ± 15.9 and 50.8 ± 21.3 points, respectively. The social functioning domain presented a strong positive correlation (r = 0.760) with the mental health domain, and eight moderate correlations (0.400 ≤ r ≥ 0.699) were found between the different domains of the questionnaire. The functional capacity domain and the physical component presented a moderate negative correlation with the WHR (r = -0.402 and r = -0.407, respectively). After adjustment, the WHR was inversely associated with the physical component (β = -1.197; p = 0.002). Conclusion: In adults with obesity, important correlations were observed between the physical and mental components of quality of life, and the waist/height ratio was the only anthropometric indicator correlated and associated with the physical component of the outcome.

Depression, anxiety and health status across different BMI classes: A representative study in Germany

BACKGROUND

Changes in body mass index (BMI) over the course of one's lifetime are related to the development of mental disorders. In the current study we compared symptoms of depression, generalized anxiety as well as general health status in the four BMI-classes: underweight, normal weight, overweight and obesity. Furthermore, mediator role of general health status on the relationship between BMI and depression and generalized anxiety was analyzed.

METHODS

A representative sample (random-route sampling) of the German population (N = 2350) was investigated in a cross-sectional survey by measuring the three questionnaires PHQ-9, GAD-7 and EQ-5D-5L.

RESULTS

The results showed significant differences between the four BMI-classes in all three questionnaires. Individuals with obesity demonstrated higher values in depression, anxiety and general health compared to the three other BMI-classes. However, there was no U-shaped association between BMI and depression, anxiety and health-related quality of life. Regarding to the mediation analysis, general health status fully mediated the association between BMI, depressive symptoms as well as generalized anxiety symptoms.

LIMITATIONS

The assessment of the three factors depression, anxiety and general health status were measured by questionnaires, but no clinical diagnoses can be provided.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence supports that individuals with obesity have an increased risk for depression and anxiety as well as lower general health. Further research on potential intervention and strategies in public health policies is needed to be able to target the developing of mental disorders in individuals with obesity. Taking their general health status into account is also of great importance.

The modifying role of physical activity in the cross-sectional and longitudinal association of health-related quality of life with physiological functioning-based latent classes and metabolic syndrome

BACKGROUND

Single cardio-metabolic risk factors are each known modifiable risk factors for adverse health and quality of life outcomes. Yet, evidence on the clustered effect of these parameters and the metabolic syndrome (MetS) on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is still limited and mostly cross-sectional. The objectives of this study were to identify clusters of cardio-metabolic physiological functioning, to assess their associations with HRQoL in comparison with the MetS, to elucidate the modifying role of physical activity, and to assess differences in health service utilization.

METHODS

This study is based on longitudinal data from two time points (2010/11 & 2017/18) of the Swiss Study on Air Pollution and Lung and Heart Diseases (SAPALDIA). Latent class analysis (LCA) grouped participants based on a priori selected cardio-metabolic and MetS related physiological functioning variables (Body mass index, body fat, glycated hemoglobin, blood triglycerides, blood pressure). The 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) was used to assess HRQoL. Quantile regressions were performed with and without adjustment for physical activity, to detect independent associations of the latent classes, MetS and physical activity with HRQoL. To assess the modifying role of physical activity, we additionally grouped participants based on the combination of physical activity and latent classes or MetS, respectively. Logistic regressions were used to investigate health service utilization as outcome.

RESULTS

The LCA resulted in three classes labeled "Healthy" (30% of participants in 2017/18), "At risk" and "Unhealthy" (29%). The Unhealthy class scored lowest in all physical component scores of HRQoL. Compared to healthy and active participants, inactive participants in the "Unhealthy" class showed lower scores in the physical functioning domain both cross-sectionally (- 9.10 (- 12.02; - 6.18)) and longitudinally. This group had an odds ratio of 2.69 (1.52; 4.74) for being hospitalized in the previous 12 months.

CONCLUSIONS

These results point to subjects with adverse cardio-metabolic physiological functioning and low activity levels as an important target group for health promotion and maintenance of well-being. The promotion of physical activity at the early stages of aging seems pivotal to mitigate the impact of the MetS on HRQoL at higher age.

The association of health behavioral risk factors with quality of life in northern Sweden-A cross-sectional survey

BACKGROUND

It is well known that behavioral risk factors such as obesity, smoking, physical activity, diet, and excessive alcohol are linked to general health in northern Sweden. This study aimed to explore the joint relationship between these risk factors and the quality of life (QoL).

METHODS

Data were collected from Sweden's national public health survey between February and May 2014 in the four northern counties in Sweden. QoL was assessed using the EuroQol (EQ-5D). Multivariable regression analysis was used to examine the relationship between five risk factors: BMI, physical activity, smoking status, fruit and vegetable intake, and alcohol consumption and QoL.

RESULTS

Data from 17 138 complete questionnaires showed that individuals who were not obese, did at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily, consumed at least 3 portions of vegetable or fruits, were not smoking daily, and who did not report being drunk at least once every week were found to have better QoL (P < .005). The mean EQ-5D score ranged from 0.85 to 0.79. Approximately, two thirds of the studied population reported being physically active for at least 30 minutes every day and two fifths of them had a normal BMI. Only around 7% of the sample reported that they were eating the recommended daily level of fruits and vegetables.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the study suggest that QoL has a significant relationship with lifestyle behaviors. This finding would emphasize the role of interventions to improve population health.

Associations between health-related quality of life, body mass index, health status and sociodemographic variables in geriatric patients and non-hospitalized older people: A comparative cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Data on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in geriatric patients and non-hospitalized older people are lacking, and the associations among HRQoL, body mass index (BMI) and health status are not sufficiently investigated in these groups.

AIM

This study aims to describe and compare HRQoL in a sample of geriatric patients and non-hospitalized people >70 years. It further aims to investigate the associations between HRQoL, BMI, health status and sociodemographic variables in geriatric patients and non-hospitalized people >70 years.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 107 geriatric patients and 328 non-hospitalized older people. HRQoL was measured with the 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36) and BMI was divided into three classes: underweight (<22 kg/m²), normal weight (22-27 kg/m²) and overweight (>27 kg/m²).

RESULTS

All SF-36 scores were lower for the geriatric patients than for the non-hospitalized people (p < .001). Underweight (BMI <22 kg/m²) was registered for 43.9% of the geriatric patients and for 13.7% of the non-hospitalized people. No significant associations were found between the SF-36 subscale scores and underweight, but overweight was associated with lower scores on physical functioning (B: -8.7) and vitality (B: -6.8) compared to those with normal BMI (p < .05). The participants with rheumatic diseases, pulmonary diseases, hypertension and digestive diseases had significantly lower scores on most SF-36 scales reflecting physical health.

CONCLUSION

HRQoL is substantially lower in geriatric patients than in non-hospitalized older people. The negative effects of both overweight and morbidity on HRQoL indicate that it is important to monitor weight and disease symptoms to promote HRQoL in older people, whether hospitalized or non-hospitalized.

Impact of weight loss interventions on patient-reported outcomes in overweight and obese adults with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review

Previous reviews explored weight loss-induced metabolic changes in overweight and obese adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) but did not report on the impact on patient-reported outcomes (PROs). This systematic review investigated the effect of weight loss interventions on weight loss and PROs in overweight and obese adults with T2D. We searched three electronic databases from inception to March 2018 for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of weight loss interventions in overweight and obese (according to BMI) adults aged ≥ 18 years reporting changes in PROs from baseline to at least one follow-up assessment during or post-intervention. One reviewer screened abstracts, performed data extraction, and conducted the narrative synthesis, with 25% cross-checking by a second reviewer. We extracted data relating to sample characteristics, intervention and comparison conditions, weight loss, and change in PROs. We identified 540 papers of which 23 met eligibility reporting on 19 RCTs. Four types of interventions (diet, surgery, pharmacological, and multi-component lifestyle interventions) significantly reduced weight. Weight loss was consistently associated with improvements in sexual and physical function across all intervention types, with diet and multi-component lifestyle interventions producing more substantial improvements than surgical or pharmacological interventions. Findings for other PROs, such as HRQOL and depressive symptoms, were inconsistent across studies and intervention types. The four weight loss interventions can be prescribed to engender weight loss in overweight and obese adults with T2D, with multi-component lifestyle interventions generating substantial improvements in physical and sexual function, perhaps due to the potency of exercise in improving PROs.

Weight Status, Physical Fitness, and Health-Related Quality of Life among Chinese Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study

PURPOSE

The impact of physical fitness (PF) on adolescents' health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is an important health issue in China. The purpose of this study was to identify whether body mass index (BMI), cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), and musculoskeletal fitness (MSF) influences HRQOL among Chinese adolescents.

METHOD

The participants were 10,007 students (boys = 5276, 14.14 years ± 1.79; girls = 4829, 14.22 years ± 1.81) who were randomly selected from 30 secondary schools in Shandong, China. BMI, CRF, MSF, and HRQOL were measured and analyzed using ANCOVA and multiple regression.

RESULTS

BMI and physical fitness variables were partially associated with HRQOL in Chinese adolescents. ANCOVA showed a significant difference among BMI categories in terms of physical sense (PS), living convenience, and self-satisfaction (SS) for boys, but this difference was only seen with social activity opportunity (SAO) for girls. Multiple regression found that BMI was significantly associated with SAO. For boys, CRF was associated with the teacher and student relationship and SS, whereas MSF was only associated with PS. For girls, CRF was significantly linked with the parent and children relationship, learning capacity, and attitudes and self-perception (S-P), while MSF was associated with S-P.

CONCLUSION

Enforcing physical activity and enhancing PF will be a crucial pathway in improving adolescents' HRQOL in China.

Exposure to potentially traumatic events in young Swiss men: associations with socio-demographics and mental health outcomes (alcohol use disorder, major depression and suicide attempts)

Background and objective: The aims of this study were to estimate the lifetime and 12-month prevalence of exposure to potentially traumatic events (PTEs) in young men in Switzerland and to assess factors and mental health outcomes associated with such events. Method: Data were drawn from the Cohort Study on Substance Use Risk Factors (C-SURF), encompassing 5,223 young men. Exposure to PTEs was assessed using the Post-traumatic Diagnostic Scale (PDS), Trauma History Questionnaire (THQ) and Life Event Checklist (LEC). Results: Lifetime prevalence of PTEs was 59.4%, with 37.3% reporting multiple types of events. Twelve-month prevalence was 31.2%, with 12.7% reporting multiple types of events. Low education level of participants, high maternal education, family affluence below average, and not living with biological parents were associated with a higher risk of having experienced one or more PTEs in one's lifetime. Low education level of participants and high maternal education were also related to exposure to one or more PTEs over the past 12 months. Logistic regression analyses demonstrated that PTE exposure was directly associated with all assessed mental health outcomes. The strongest relationship was found between exposure to multiple types of PTEs and suicide attempts (adjusted OR 4.9 [95% CI: 2.9-8.4]). Conclusions: These results indicate that having experienced one or multiple types of PTEs is common in Swiss young men. Efforts should be intensified to reduce exposure to PTEs and prevent and treat resulting problematic mental health outcomes in young adults.

Association between body mass index and health-related quality of life among Chinese elderly-evidence from a community-based study

Background

This study aimed to explore the effects of (body mass index) BMI on health related quality of life (HRQoL) among the elderly in Jiangsu, China.

Methods

A total of 10,257 community dwelling elderly (≥60 years old) were enrolled in a cross-sectional study. HRQoL was measured via the Eq-5d-3 L. Chi-square tests and one-way ANOVA analyses were used to compare the frequencies and scores of Eq-5d responses among different BMI groups (defined as “underweight”, “normal weight”, “overweight” and “obese”). Logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the associations between BMI and HRQoL.

Results

Among the subjects, the proportion of “normal weight”, “underweight”, “overweight” and “obese” were 66.0, 8.3, 23.1, and 2.6%, respectively. The score of the Eq-5d index among total participants was 0.8036 and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score was 75.47. For both the responses frequency and scores of Eq-5d-3 L, there were significant differences among BMI groups (P < 0.001). The Logistic regression model showed that both in men and women, underweight elderly were more likely to suffer low HRQoL. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) for Eq-5d index/VAS was 2.03 (1.48, 2.79)/1.83 (1.34, 2.50) in men and 1.47(1.09,1.98)/1.52(1.20,1.91) in women. Overweight women more likely to have a low Eq-5d index, while overweight men were less likely to have a low Eq-5d VAS.

Conclusion

This study shows that underweight is an explicit risk factor of low HRQoL in both the male and female elderly, while the effect of overweight on low HRQoL varies slightly by gender.

Exploring the associations between systemic inflammation, obesity and healthy days: a health related quality of life (HRQOL) analysis of NHANES 2005-2008

Background

Obesity is positively associated with low-level chronic inflammation, and negatively associated with several indices of health-related quality of life (HRQOL). It is however not clear if obesity-associated inflammation is partly responsible for the observed negative associations between obesity and HRQOL, and also whether systemic inflammation independently affects HRQOL. We conducted an exploratory analysis to investigate the relationships between obesity, systemic inflammation and indices of HRQOL, using NHANES survey data.

Methods

Data for the variables of interest were available for 6325 adults (aged 20–75 years, BMI > 18.5 kg/m²). Demographic, body mass index (BMI), C-reactive protein (CRP), inflammatory disease status, medication use, smoking, and HRQOL data were obtained from NHANES (2005–2008) and analyzed using sampling-weighted generalized linear models. Data was subjected to multiple imputation in order to mitigate information loss from survey non-response. Both main effects and interaction effects were analyzed to evaluate possible mediation or moderation effects. Model robustness was ascertained via sensitivity analysis. Averaged results from the imputed datasets were reported in as odds ratios (OR) and confidence intervals (CI).

Results

Obesity was positively associated with poor physical healthy days (OR: 1.59, 95% CI: 1.15–2.21) in unadjusted models. ‘Elevated’ and ‘clinically raised’ levels of the inflammation marker CRP were also positively associated with poor physical healthy days (OR = 1.61, 95% CI: 1.23–2.12, and OR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.84–3.26, respectively); additionally, ‘clinically raised’ CRP was positively associated with mental unhealthy days (OR = 1.66, 95% CI: 1.26–2.19). The association between obesity and physical HRQOL was rendered non-significant in models including CRP. Association between ‘elevated’ and ‘clinically raised’ CRP and physical unhealthy days remained significant even after adjustment for obesity or inflammation-modulating covariates (OR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.02–1.82, and OR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.21–2.54, respectively).

Conclusions

Systemic inflammation appears to mediate the association between obesity and physical unhealthy days. Clinically raised inflammation is an independent determinant of physical and mental unhealthy days. Importantly, elevated (but sub-clinical) inflammation is also negatively associated with physical healthy days, and may warrant more attention from a population health perspective than currently appreciated.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s40608-018-0196-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The moderating effect of income on the relationship between body mass index and health-related quality of life in Northern Sweden

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and whether this relationship is influenced by the level of income in Northern Sweden. Overweight and obesity are rising major public health problems which also affect HRQoL. While socioeconomic inequalities in health are persisting or increasing in many countries, including Sweden, little attention has been paid to the more complex roles of income in relation to health. Methods: Data were drawn from a 2014 cross-sectional survey from Northern Sweden (Health on Equal Terms), comprising individuals aged 20-84 years (N = 20,082 individuals included for analysis). BMI and HRQoL were self-reported and individual disposable income in 2012 was retrieved from population registers. Multiple linear regressions were performed with HRQoL scores regressed on BMI and income, their interaction and additional covariates. Results: The underweight, overweight and obesity groups reported significantly lower HRQoL compared to the normal weight group. Moreover, the relationship between BMI and HRQoL varied significantly by level of income, with a stronger association among those with the lowest level of income. Conclusions: Income has a role as an effect modifier in the relationship between BMI and HRQoL that can be construed as an indirect income inequality. Efforts to promote HRQoL in populations should consider the different impact of being overweight and obese in different socioeconomic groups.

Abstinence and reduced frequency of use are associated with improvements in quality of life among treatment-seekers with cannabis use disorder

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Many patients with cannabis use disorder (CUD) do not achieve or do not have abstinence as a goal of treatment, rather they reduce their use. Assessing outcome measures as they relate to functioning and reductions in cannabis use is an important area of study. Quality of life (QoL) shows promise as one such measure. Past studies have demonstrated gender differences in QoL and CUD. We aim to assess (1) the relationship between cannabis use and QoL and (2) gender effects in an outpatient medication treatment study for CUD.

METHODS

Data from an 11-weeks, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of lofexidine and dronabinol for CUD (n = 62) was analyzed. Pearson's correlations between baseline QoL as measured with the Quality of Life, Enjoyment, and Satisfaction Questionnaire-Short Form (QLES-Q-SF) and cannabis use assessed with modified timeline follow-back (TLFB) were examined. Multiple linear regression models of cannabis use on end of study QLES-Q-SF were analyzed, while adjusting for baseline QLES-Q-SF, study arm, and gender. Moderation effects with gender were also tested.

RESULTS

No significant association between baseline cannabis use and QoL was found. End of study abstinence (F_{1,47   =}  8.34, p = .006) and reduced proportion of using days (F_1,47  = 9.48, p = .004) were each significantly associated with end of study QoL. Reduction in grams (F_1,27  = 0.25, p = .62) was not associated with QoL at end of study. Gender was not a significant moderator.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Abstinence and lower frequency of use are associated with higher QoL, regardless of gender.

SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE

This is the first time QoL has been demonstrated to change over the course of CUD medication treatment. QoL is an important outcome in CUD treatment.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT01020019. (Am J Addict 2018;27:101-107).

Condición física y calidad de vida en escolares de 8 a 12 años

Introducción. La condición física (CF) es un importante indicador fisiológico del estado de salud de la población en general y de los escolares en particular.Objetivo. Analizar la relación entre CF y calidad de vida (CV) en una muestra de escolares de primaria.Materiales y métodos. Estudio transversal en el que participaron 298 escolares (159 mujeres y 139 varones) de entre 8 y 12 años de la región de Murcia, en España, durante el periodo 2013-2014. La CF se valoró mediante la batería ALPHA-fitness y su nivel (bajo, medio y alto) fue categorizado con base en estudios previos, la CV se valoró mediante el cuestionario KIDSCREEN-10 Index y para establecer la relación entre ambas variables se realizó un análisis de varianza simple.Resultados. El valor global de la CF se asoció de manera positiva con la CV (F=3.997; p=0.019).Conclusiones. Los resultados sugieren que los escolares con un mejor estado de CF tienen una mayor CV. Se precisan estudios de intervención dirigidos al desarrollo de la CF para evaluar las posibles mejoras en los niveles de CV de los jóvenes.

Association between weight status and men's positive mental health: The influence of marital status

The purpose of this study was to (1) examine the association between weight status and men's positive mental health, defined as the presence of symptoms of emotional, psychological, and social well-being, and (2) evaluate the moderating effect of marital status. A total of 645 men aged between 19 and 71 years self-reported their height and weight and answered a questionnaire measuring their emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Analysis of variance revealed that mean levels of emotional, psychological, and social well-being did not significantly differ according to men's weight status. Moderation analyses indicated that, for men in a relationship (married or living common-law), there were no significant associations between overweight, obesity, and the three components of positive mental health. However, for single men, overweight was marginally associated with higher emotional well-being, while obesity was associated with lower psychological well-being and marginally associated with lower social well-being. Results of the present study suggest that health professionals and researchers should take the characteristics (such as marital status) of men with obesity and overweight into account when working with them. Mental health researchers may need to examine men in each weight category separately (e.g. obesity vs. overweight), since the association with positive mental health can differ from one category to another.

Quality of life and recreational cannabis use

INTRODUCTION

Cannabis is now the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States and use is increasing. Frequent cannabis use has been associated with adverse social and health effects. We sought to evaluate the relationship between recreational cannabis use and Quality of Life (QoL), a person-centered measure that characterizes the overall sense of health and wellbeing. We hypothesized that QoL would be unchanged or increased among recreational cannabis users, who did not meet criteria for a Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) and that QoL would be lower among those who met criteria for a CUD.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review, employing guidelines from Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The results were categorized into tables and identified trends.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies met our pre-defined selection criteria. The studies were heterogeneous and their quality was low. With one exception, we did not identify any population for whom cannabis use was associated with improved QoL. QoL was lower in persons who used cannabis heavily, or who met criteria for CUD. However, this association was inconsistent and the magnitude was weaker than the relationship between QoL and use of other addictive substances (including tobacco and illicit drugs).

CONCLUSION

In this systematic review, heavy cannabis use or CUD was associated with reduced QoL. It is unknown whether reduced QoL drives cannabis use, or whether cannabis use can lead to reduced QoL. Prospective studies are needed to evaluate the causal relationship between cannabis and QoL.

SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE

Furthering the understanding of the relationship between cannabis and QoL can inform public policy, prevention efforts, outcomes, and an objective understanding of the effects of cannabis users. (Am J Addict 2017;26:8-25).

Hypertension Impact on Health-Related Quality of Life: A Cross-Sectional Survey among Middle-Aged Adults in Chongqing, China

Hypertension is a major risk factor of cardiovascular disease in China, and yet little is known about health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and its associations with demographic and social-economic characteristics in middle-aged patients with hypertension. A cross-sectional survey was undertaken in Chongqing, China, using a multistage stratified random sampling methodology. Data was collected on 1,224 eligible adults, aged between 45 and 53 years, including the Medical Outcomes Survey Short Form-36 to measure HRQOL. Hypertension was associated with poor state of physical functioning, role-physical, bodily pain, general health, vitality, and social function (p < 0.05 for all). In multivariable analyses, education level, job conditions, average monthly income, smoking status, sleep quality, perception of relationship with family, childhood breastfeeding history, and body mass index were associated with domains of SF36 among those with hypertension (p < 0.05 for all). Hypertensive respondents with high education, marital status, breastfeeding, higher incomes, good quality of sleep, positive relationship with family, and higher body mass index have better HRQOL in middle-aged people with hypertension. Those unemployed had a better state of general health and had a poorer state of social function. Nonsmokers had a poorer state of bodily pain than smokers. This study provides detailed information of the implications for health care providers to gain a more complete picture of their hypertension patients' health.

Finding big shots: small-area mapping and spatial modelling of obesity among Swiss male conscripts

BACKGROUND

In Switzerland, as in other developed countries, the prevalence of overweight and obesity has increased substantially since the early 1990s. Most of the analyses so far have been based on sporadic surveys or self-reported data and did not offer potential for small-area analyses. The goal of this study was to investigate spatial variation and determinants of obesity among young Swiss men using recent conscription data.

METHODS

A complete, anonymized dataset of conscription records for the 2010-2012 period were provided by Swiss Armed Forces. We used a series of Bayesian hierarchical logistic regression models to investigate the spatial pattern of obesity across 3,187 postcodes, varying them by type of random effects (spatially unstructured and structured), level of adjustment by individual (age and professional status) and area-based [urbanicity and index of socio-economic position (SEP)] characteristics.

RESULTS

The analysed dataset consisted of 100,919 conscripts, out of which 5,892 (5.8 %) were obese. Crude obesity prevalence increased with age among conscripts of lower individual and area-based SEP and varied greatly over postcodes. Best model's estimates of adjusted odds ratios of obesity on postcode level ranged from 0.61 to 1.93 and showed a strong spatial pattern of obesity risk across the country. Odds ratios above 1 concentrated in central and north Switzerland. Smaller pockets of elevated obesity risk also emerged around cities of Geneva, Fribourg and Lausanne. Lower estimates were observed in North-East and East as well as south of the Alps. Importantly, small regional outliers were observed and patterning did not follow administrative boundaries. Similarly as with crude obesity prevalence, the best fitting model confirmed increasing risk of obesity with age and among conscripts of lower professional status. The risk decreased with higher area-based SEP and, to a lesser degree - in rural areas.

CONCLUSION

In Switzerland, there is a substantial spatial variation in obesity risk among young Swiss men. Small-area estimates of obesity risk derived from conscripts records contribute to its understanding and could be used to design further studies and interventions.

Combined association of fitness and central adiposity with health-related quality of life in healthy Men: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

There is limited data examining the association of combined fitness and central obesity with health related quality of life (HRQoL) in adults. We examined the association of combined cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) in the form of a fit-fat index (FFI) with the Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) HRQoL scores in United States Navy servicemen.

METHODS

As part of a health fitness assessment, a total of 709 healthy males aged 18-49 years completed a submaximal exercise test, WHtR measurement, and HRQoL survey (SF-12v2) between 2004 and 2006. FFI level was classified into thirds with the lowest FFI tertile serving as the referent group. PCS and MCS scores ≥50 were taken to indicate average or better. Logistic regression was used to obtain odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS

The prevalence of average or better HRQoL scores was lowest in the referent FFI tertile, PCS 60.2% and MCS 57.6%. Compared with the lowest FFI group in multivariate analyses, the OR (95% CI) of having average or better PCS was 1.63 (1.09-2.42) and 3.12 (1.95-4.99) for moderate and high FFI groups respectively; MCS was 1.70 (1.13-2.55) and 4.89 (3.03-7.89) for moderate and high FFI groups respectively (all P < 0.001). Consistent and progressive independent associations were observed between age and MCS, and also between CRF and MCS.

CONCLUSION

Among males in the United States Navy, higher levels of FFI were independently and more consistently associated with having average or better HRQoL (physical and mental) than other known predictors of HRQoL.

Adverse lifestyle and health-related quality of life: gender differences in patients with and without chronic conditions

OBJECTIVES

The aim was to investigate the relationship between the main lifestyle-related factors and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in a sample of patients with and without chronic conditions (CCs) with respect to the gender differences in both groups.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 1061 patients (of which 308 had no CCs and 753 of those had one or more CCs) recruited at primary health care centres and the Internal Medicine Clinic at Tartu University Hospital in Estonia. Data were collected during 2012-2014. The patient's age, self-reported smoking status, alcohol consumption (assessed by Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test) and body mass index were used as independent variables to predict the physical component scores (PCS) and mental component scores (MCS) of HRQoL (assessed by SF-36).

RESULTS

Smoking had a negative association with both physical and mental components of HRQoL only in women with CCs. Further, the PCS of chronically ill women was negatively associated with the higher body mass index. Harmful drinking had a negative association with the HRQoL in all patient groups, except with the PCS in women with CC. Light alcohol consumption without symptoms of harmful use or dependency had a positive association with the physical and mental HRQoL in all patient groups, except with the MCS in women without CCs.

CONCLUSION

Adverse lifestyle had the most expressed association with HRQoL in women with CCs. Light alcohol consumption had a positive association, but harmful use of alcohol had an inverse association with HRQoL irrespective of patients' gender or health status.

Cross-sectional time trends in psychological and somatic health complaints among adolescents: a structural equation modelling analysis of 'Health Behaviour in School-aged Children' data from Switzerland

PURPOSE

This study examined cross-sectional time trends in health complaints among adolescents living in Switzerland, including differences between population subgroups and sources of differential response to items.

METHODS

Swiss data were analysed from the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC; including 11-15 years old) from 1994 (n = 7008), 1998 (n = 8296), 2002 (n = 9066) and 2006 (n = 9255). Structural equation modelling was used to assess (1) the structure of the HBSC Symptom Checklist (HBSC-SCL; questionnaire, which asks about the frequency of eight health complaints) and (2) associations between the HBSC-SCL with year of data collection and demographic characteristics of the participants.

RESULTS

Two correlated factors fitted the data better than a single factor. The psychological factor included the items 'feeling low,' 'irritability and bad temper,' 'nervousness' and 'difficulties in getting to sleep,' and the somatic factor the items 'headache', 'backache', 'stomach ache' and 'dizziness'. Relative to 1994, lower levels of psychological health complaints were experienced in 1998, 2002 and 2006. However, the changes were only minor. In contrast, somatic health complaints increased monotonically over the years of the survey. Experiencing psychological and somatic health complaints was more pronounced with age among females relative to males and was associated with living in particular language regions of Switzerland.

CONCLUSIONS

Different cross-sectional time trends were identified for the psychological and somatic latent variables, indicating that both factors should be investigated when studying period effects.

Body shape dissatisfaction is a 'normative discontent' in a young-adult Nigerian population: A study of prevalence and effects on health-related quality of life

This study investigates the prevalence of weight misperception, weight preference, and body shape dissatisfaction (BSD) among young-adult Nigerians and assesses the impact of these factors on population quality-of-life (QOL). Relevant anthropometric data were collected according to internationally accepted protocols. Weight perception, weight preference, and BSD were measured using Stunkard silhouettes, while QOL was determined by subjective self-reporting. The results show that 26.7% of the population (18.8% for males and 34.5% for females) misperceived their weight. Among overweight participants, 56.6% (males) and 38.3% (females) thought they were thinner, while 11.5% (males) and 43.3% (females) thought they were heavier. Thin and obese males misperceived their weights more than their female counterparts. BSD was found in 62% of the population (52% for males and 71% for females) and was highest among obese participants (91.9%) and lowest among normal-weight participants (58.2%), irrespective of sex. In participants with BSD, QOL was worse in thin and normal-weight respondents who preferred to be heavier and in overweight respondents who preferred to be thinner. The high prevalence of weight misperception may lead to inappropriate weight loss habits, while BSD, a normative discontent in this population, negatively impacts subject QOL.

Association between Body Mass Index and Health-Related Quality of Life: The "Obesity Paradox" in 21,218 Adults of the Chinese General Population

BACKGROUND

There was no consistent recognition of the association between high or low body mass index (BMI) and health related quality of life (HRQL). The aim of this research was to study the association between BMI and HRQL in Chinese adults, and to further explore the stability of that association in the subgroup analysis stratified by status of chronic conditions.

METHODS

A total of 21,218 adults aged 18 and older were classified as underweight, normal weight, overweight, class I obese, and class II obese based on their BMI. HRQL was measured by the SF-36 Health Survey. The independent impact of each BMI category on HRQL was examined through standard least squares regression by comparing the difference of SF-36 scores and the minimum clinically important differences (MCID), which was defined as 3 points.

RESULTS

Compared to the normal weight, the class I obese was significantly associated with better HRQL scores in the mental component summary (MCS) (75.1 vs. 73.4, P<0.001). The underweight had the lowest score in both the physical components summary (PCS) (75.4 vs. 77.5, P<0.001) and mental components summary (MCS) (71.8 vs. 73.4, P<0.001). For the MCID, the HRQL score was reduced by more than 3 points in the physical functioning for the class II obese (D=-3.43) and the general health for the underweight (D=-3.71). Stratified analyses showed a similar result in the health subjects and chronic conditions, and it was significant in the chronic conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

The class I obese showed the best HRQL, especially in the mental domain. The worst HRQL was found in the underweight. The class II obese reduced HRQL in the physical functioning only. "Obesity paradox" was more obvious in the participants with chronic conditions.

The associations between overweight, weight change and health related quality of life: Longitudinal data from the Stockholm Public Health Cohort 2002-2010

OBJECTIVE

Cross-sectional studies have shown that people with obesity and overweight report lower health related quality of life (HRQoL). With a lack of longitudinal studies, this study aims to assess the association between eight-year weight change and HRQoL measured by the EQ-5D instrument and to investigate whether the association differs with regard to baseline body mass index (BMI).

METHOD

A population-based survey was conducted among a random sample of 31,182 individuals from Stockholm County aged 18-84years in 2002 and reassessed in 2010 and supplemented by record linkage with regional and national registers. Multivariate Poisson regression and linear regression were conducted with adjustments for socio-demographic and health-related variables and baseline BMI category as effect modifier for the association between weight change and HRQoL.

RESULTS

Individuals with overweight and obesity respectively have 0.014 and 0.039 lower EQ-5D indexes compared to those being normal weight. Over the eight-year follow-up, 17.6% gained moderately (≥5% body weight) and 13.9% gained heavily (≥10% body weight) in weight. In the fully adjusted analysis, heavy weight gain was associated with a significantly lower overall EQ-5D index and an increased risk of reporting impairment in all but one EQ-5D dimensions irrespective of baseline BMI category. Weight reduction had no significant preventive effect.

CONCLUSION

Next to obesity status itself, weight gain leads to impairment in HRQoL irrespective of BMI category at baseline while eight year weight loss seems not to have the reversed effect on HRQoL, emphasizing the importance of primary prevention of weight gain.

Prevalence of and associated factors for adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in young Swiss men

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to measure the prevalence of adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in a large, representative sample of young Swiss men and to assess factors associated with this disorder.

METHODS

Our sample consisted of 5656 Swiss men (mean age 20 years) who participated in the Cohort Study on Substance Use Risk Factors (C-SURF). ADHD was assessed with the World Health Organization (WHO) adult ADHD Self Report Screener (ASRS). Logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess the association between ADHD and several socio-demographic, clinical and familial factors.

RESULTS

The prevalence of ADHD was 4.0%, being higher in older and French-speaking conscripts. A higher prevalence also was identified among men whose mothers had completed primary or high school/university and those with a family history of alcohol or psychiatric problems. Additionally, adults with ADHD demonstrated impairment in their professional life, as well as considerable mental health impairment.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrate that ADHD is common among young Swiss men. The impairments in function and mental health we observed highlight the need for further support and interventions to reduce burden in affected individuals. Interventions that incorporate the whole family also seem crucial.

Analysis of NHANES 1999-2002 data reveals noteworthy association of alcohol consumption with obesity

BACKGROUND

With the obesity pandemic sweeping the globe and alcohol use on the rise worldwide, there is growing interest in how the two might be linked epidemiologically. The aim of the study was to use data from the NHANES registry from 1999-2002 to analyze the association between obesity and alcohol use.

METHODS

Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between alcohol use and obesity. Risk was assessed separately for men and women.

RESULTS

Of the 9,193 individuals (49% males), 26.8% of males and 33.6% of females were obese. About 17% of males and 12% of females were never drinkers (less than 12 drinks in their lifetime). After adjusting for age, race, marital status, highest level of education of the individual and spouse, country of origin, annual household income and duration of physical activity in the past 30 days, the odds of obesity were higher in never drinkers compared to ever drinkers in both men and women. Consumption of alcohol for more than 45 days, binge drinking (>5 drinks/day) for more than 90 days and being "ever binge drinker" were associated with significantly higher odds of obesity (in both genders) than those who drank for shorter duration or were "never binge drinkers". Consumption of alcohol more than the recommended limit for moderate drinking (3 drinks/day in females and 4 drinks/day in males) was associated with increased (OR 1.074, 95% CI 1.072-1.076) and decreased (OR 0.970, 95%CI 0.968-0.972) obesity in females and males respectively.

CONCLUSION

Frequent or heavy alcohol consumption is associated with greater odds of being obese.