A study based on the Cork and Kerry Diabetes and Heart Disease Phase II clinical investigation shows the complex relationship between obesity and depression in elderly people. Previous research suggested a correlation, but this study examines the relationship between BMI and WHR as fat mass metrics and mental health. An overall evaluation analyzed 1,800 individuals’ demographic, lifestyle, and chronic illness profiles.
Obesity was strongly linked to depression, and both BMI and WHR showed a higher risk of depression in both genders. This link was stronger for women. Previous studies imply that obesity increases depression risk, but these findings contradict this. The relationship may be due to low self-esteem, social prejudice, and obesity’s impact on the CNS and ENDO systems.
Significant implications show that obesity interventions may help elderly people with mental health difficulties. The study was surprising since lifestyle factors appeared to be correctable, highlighting the importance of a healthy lifestyle to reduce depression risk.
This study opened a new chapter in understanding the complex relationship between obesity and depression in senior patients and stressed the need to address both physical and psychological elements of mental health in older persons.
