Family Functionality and Frequency of Depression in Adults with Obesity

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of symptoms related to depression in adult patients with obesity as well as their family functioning. Methods: Cross-sectional study in patients with obesity aged 20 to 50 years who attended the Family Medicine Unit (UMF) 16 in Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico; during February to July 2023. 222 participants were included using non-probabilistic quota sampling. The UMF had a population of 2,221 patients with obesity between 20 and 50 years old. The variables studied were: age, sex, education, occupation, depression and family functioning. The PHQ-9 questionnaire was applied to detect symptoms related to depression and the Family Apgar to determine family functioning. Descriptive statistics were used using the statistical program SPSS v22. Results: from a sample pool of 222 participants, the following characteristics predominanted:  mean age of 38.51 years, female sex (79.3%), secondary education and active employment. 80.6% had symptoms related to depression, mild symptoms (56.8%), female sex 64.4% and the 40-50 age group. Regarding family functionality, 47.3% presented mild dysfunction. Conclusions: More than half of the participants had depressive symptoms and mild family dysfunction; these symptoms should be intentionally sought in primary care.