Self-Reported Psychosocial Health in Obese Patients before and after Weight Loss

الملخص EN

Psychosocial profiles were examined in 255 morbidly obese patients attending a hospital service offering access to standard weight loss therapies.

129 patients were reassessed after at least 6-month follow-up.

At baseline, 51.8% and 32.7% of patients, respectively, had evidence of anxiety and depressive disorders, 24% had severe impairments in self esteem, and 29.7% had an increased risk of eating disorders.

At follow-up, weight loss from baseline was significant in all 3 therapies: diet only is 0.74±1.8 kg; pharmacotherapy is 6.7±4.2 kg; and surgery is 20.1±13.6 kg.

Anxiety scores improved in all three groups (P<.05).

Patients having pharmacotherapy or surgery had significant improvements in physical and work function and public distress compared to those having dietary treatment only (P<.05).

Our observational data suggest that weight management services can lead to psychosocial benefit in morbidly obese patients.

Well-designed studies are necessary to examine the link between weight loss and emotional health.