Obesity significantly impacts patients with bipolar I disorder (BDI), affecting clinical, humanistic, and economic outcomes, according to a study presented at the 2022 NEI Congress. Researchers analyzed data from the 2016 and 2020 US National Health and Wellness Survey, categorizing 1853 participants based on BMI. They found that those with obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) had higher rates of comorbid conditions like high blood pressure, cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, asthma, cancer, and sleep apnea. These patients also experienced more hospitalizations and emergency department visits, and the highest direct and indirect costs.
The study revealed that the mean age of participants was 34.1 years, with the obese group generally older than the underweight/normal group. More than half of the participants were female and white. Obesity was linked to higher activity impairment and decreased employment rates. Interestingly, the underweight/normal weight group reported slightly higher absenteeism and overall work impairment compared to the obese group. The researchers emphasized the importance of considering the clinical, humanistic, and economic burdens of obesity in treating adults with BDI.
Reference: Anne Duerr H. A Heavy Burden: Bipolar Disorder and Obesity. Psychiatric Times. Published November 5, 2022. Accessed June 18, 2024. https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/a-heavy-burden-bipolar-disorder-and-obesity
Link: https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/a-heavy-burden-bipolar-disorder-and-obesity
