Endocrine Abstracts

JOINT3706

Introduction: Obesity is a significant global health issue and an independent risk factor for numerous chronic physical and mental health conditions. Beyond its medical implications, obesity also affects quality of life, influencing physical well-being, psychological health, social interactions, and life satisfaction. Individuals with obesity often experience limitations in daily activities, reduced mobility, emotional distress, and stigma, all of which contribute to a diminished sense of well-being. This study aimed to assess the impact of obesity on various health outcomes and to measure the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in young women with obesity.

Material and Methods: A total of 130 young women, aged 18-45, were included in the study. Participants were categorized into two groups based on BMI: 69 women with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m²) and 61 with normal weight (BMI ≤25 kg/m²). HRQoL was measured using the 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36). Pearson correlation coefficients were used to examine associations between obesity and HRQoL domains, controlling for potential confounding factors.

Results: The mean age was 31.8 ± 6.75 years, with no significant difference between groups. The results reveal a significant negative correlation between between BMI and multiple HRQoL domains in young women, including physical functioning (F=62.89, P <0.001), emotional well-being (F=68.47, P <0.001), social functioning (F=70.9, P <0.001), and general health (F=78.96, P <0.001). Women with obesity reported increased role limitations due to physical (F=28.37, P <0.001) and emotional factors (F=46.33, P <0.001), reduced vitality (F=72.7, P <0.001), and greater bodily pain (F=59.17, P <0.001). The findings indicate that as BMI increases, perceived quality of life significantly declines, particularly in mental and social health aspects.

Conclusion: This study highlights the strong association between obesity and reduced HRQoL in young women, particularly in emotional well-being, social participation, and physical functioning. Given these findings, comprehensive, multidisciplinary interventions that integrate mental health support, customized physical activity programs, and social empowerment strategies are essential for enhancing the overall well-being of young women living with obesity.