Association Between Body Mass Index and Depression, Anxiety, and Suicidality in University Students From Seven Regions of China: A Cross-Sectional Study
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Lester, David
Lew, Bob
Kolves, Kairi
Huen, Jenny Mei Yiu
Gunn, John F
Sun Chen, Won
Ibrahim, Norhayati
Fariduddin, Muhamad Nur
Koo, Hui Chin
Jia, Cunxian
Prawiromaruto, Ian Griffin
Chan, Caryn Mei Hsien
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Abstract
Our study explored the link between body mass index (BMI) and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and suicidality among university students in China. We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 11 251 undergraduates from seven provinces. Body mass index, physical health status, economic status, depression and anxiety symptoms, and suicidality were self-reported using validated questionnaires. Multiple logistic regression models were fitted for males and females. Results showed that of 11 251 participants (mean age = 20.7 ± 1.3), 22.6% were with underweight, 6.1% with overweight, and 2.7% with obesity. Females with class III obesity had higher suicide risk (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.05) and suicide attempt history (aOR = 3.55). Males with overweight and class I obesity had lower odds of depressive symptoms. Suicide attempt history was associated with higher odds of overweight for males (aOR = 2.58). Clinicians and public health authorities should take into consideration the implications of overweight and obesity levels on suicidality.
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Asia Pacific Journal of Public Health
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This publication has been entered in Griffith Research Online as an advance online version.
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Sociology
Social psychology
Public health
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Siau, CS; Lester, D; Lew, B; Kolves, K; Huen, JMY; Gunn, JF; Sun Chen, W; Ibrahim, N; Fariduddin, MN; Koo, HC; Jia, C; Prawiromaruto, IG; Chan, CMH, Association Between Body Mass Index and Depression, Anxiety, and Suicidality in University Students From Seven Regions of China: A Cross-Sectional Study, Asia Pacific Journal of Public Health, 2025