Prevalence and correlates of overweight and obesity in patients with major depression accompanied by abnormal TSH levels.

BACKGROUND

Abnormal thyroid function is common in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), which may be closely associated with metabolic disturbances, especially overweight and obesity. This study aimed to examine the prevalence of overweight and obesity and their related factors in MDD patients with elevated thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels.

METHODS

A total of 1718 patients with MDD were recruited in this study. Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD), and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) positive subscale were used to assess clinical symptoms. In addition, free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), anti-thyroglobulin (A-TG), body weight, height, and blood pressure were measured.

RESULTS

MDD patients with elevated TSH levels had a higher rate of obesity and overweight compared to those without abnormal TSH levels. Among patients with elevated TSH levels, those who were overweight and obese had an older actual age and age of onset, lower A-TG levels, and higher systolic blood pressure than those who were not overweight and obese. Further logistic regression analysis showed that being married (OR: 1.582, 95% CI: 1.191-2.102) and having no suicidal behavior (OR: 1.444, 95% CI: 1.079-1.934) were independently associated with overweight and obesity in patients with elevated TSH level (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Patients with MDD who have elevated TSH levels are more likely to be obese and overweight. Actual age, age of onset, systolic blood pressure, A-TG levels, marital statusand and suicidal behavior were associated with obesity and overweight in MDD patients with elevated TSH levels.