Association Between Obesity and Depressive Symptoms: A Cross-Sectional Study Among Undergraduate and Graduate Students in Bronx, NY

Background: Obesity and depression are public health crises in the United States. College students are impacted by both obesity and depression congruently in the US. Purpose: This study analyzed the impact of obesity on depression among 986 undergraduate and graduate students in two colleges located in the Bronx, NY. Methods: Data for this cross-sectional study were collected using a subsection (depression) of the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Body Mass Index was calculated using participant’s self-reported height and weight. Data were analyzed using Chi-square test and logistic regression analysis. Results: Researchers found an association between obesity and depression. Students who were normal weight were less likely to be depressed compared to obese students after controlling for potential confounders in the logistic regression analysis (Exp(B)=0.698, C.I.=0.493-0.987, p=0.042). Those who were between the ages of 18-24 (Exp(B)=2.463, C.I.=1.602-3.786, p< 0.001) and 25-34 (Exp(B)=1.616, C.I.=1.024-2.549, p=.039) were respectively 2.4 and 1.6 times more likely to experience depression compared to those who were 35 years-old or above. Conclusion: Institutions should screen students for obesity and depression on college campuses. They should develop programs that treat obesity and depression simultaneously with the goal of improving overall well-being and academic outcomes.