A Study on the Relationship among Obesity, Suicide Plans, and Suicide Attempts: The 2018 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
- Author:
Jung Hyuck PARK
1
;
Mi Kyoung SEO
;
Taekjoong KIM
;
Sung Woo PARK
;
Jung Goo LEE
Author Information
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From: Mood and Emotion 2021;19(1):24-34
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background:This study explores the correlation among obesity, suicide plans, and suicide attempts in adults over 19 years of age in South Korea.
Methods:The study used data from adults who had participated in the 2018 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Obesity was defined as having a body mass index of ≥25 kg/m 2 . To identify differences between the characteristics of those who had reported suicide plans and attempts, a complex sample chi-square test was conducted. To analyze the effect of obesity on suicide plans and attempts, a logistic regression analysis was performed.
Results:There was no significant difference in the rate of suicide plans in one year between obese and non-obese groups; however, the rate of actual suicide attempts was significantly high in the obese group (p<0.050). After correcting for variables that were significantly different between the groups, obesity was found to have no significant effect on suicide plans but was linked to a significant increase in suicide attempts (odds ratio=3.355, p=0.008).
Conclusion:Obesity was found to have no effect on the suicide planning rate; however, the probability of a suicide attempt was high in obese adults.
