Association Between Body Mass Index and Depression, Anxiety, and Suicidality in University Students From Seven Regions of China: A Cross-Sectional Study

• Published in: ASIA-PACIFIC JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
• Main Authors: Siau, Ching Sin; 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
• Format: Article; Early Access
• Language: English
• Published: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INC 2025
• Subjects: Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
• Online Access: https://www-webofscience-com.uitm.idm.oclc.org/wos/woscc/full-record/WOS:001389267700001
• ISSN: 1010-5395; 1941-2479
• DOI: 10.1177/10105395241311134

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.