Association study of depressive symptoms and periodontitis in an obese population: Analysis based on NHANES data from 2009 to 2014
2024

Depressive Symptoms and Periodontitis in Obese Individuals

Sample size: 4820 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Li Shuning, Liu Jilun, Zhang Rui, Dong Jianfeng

Primary Institution: Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China

Hypothesis

There is a significant association between depressive symptoms and periodontitis in obese individuals.

Conclusion

The study found a significant negative correlation between depressive symptoms and periodontitis in obese individuals, suggesting that depressive symptoms may act as a protective factor against periodontitis.

Supporting Evidence

  • The study analyzed data from 4,820 obese individuals aged 30 and older.
  • Depressive symptoms were measured using the PHQ-9 questionnaire.
  • Results indicated a significant negative correlation between depressive symptoms and periodontitis.
  • Adjusted models showed a p-value of 0.0266, indicating statistical significance.
  • The findings suggest that mental health may influence oral health in obese populations.

Takeaway

This study shows that people who feel sad might actually have healthier gums if they are obese, which is surprising because we usually think depression makes health worse.

Methodology

Data from the NHANES database (2009–2014) was analyzed using multivariable logistic regression to assess the relationship between depressive symptoms and periodontitis in obese individuals.

Potential Biases

Potential reporting bias and confounding factors such as medication use or undiagnosed conditions.

Limitations

The study is based on retrospective data and self-reported questionnaires, which may not accurately capture long-term changes in depressive symptoms and periodontal health.

Participant Demographics

Participants were aged 30 years or older with a BMI over 30, including various races and education levels.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.0266

Confidence Interval

-0.24 to -0.01

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0315754

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