Background Obesity is an important determinant of mental health in the child and adolescent population. In this
study, the association between obesity and the development of psychological problems in Spanish children aged 9
and 12 years was examined.
Methods In this prospective study, 2,473 9-year-old children and 2,119 12-year-olds who participated in theLongitudinal Study of Childhood Obesity (ELOIN) were evaluated. The standardized BMI was calculated from weight and height, and weight status was classified according to the 2007 World Health Organization criteria. Mental health difficulties were assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), which was completed by the parents. BMI and SDQ scores were determined repeatedly at 9 and 12 years of age. Using generalized estimating equations, β coefficients were calculated when analysing the SDQ scores, and odds ratios (ORs) were calculated to estimate mental health risk using Goodman´s British cut-off points.
Results Compared with participants without obesity, those who had obesity had a higher total score on the SDQ (β coefficient: 1.12 (95% CI: 0.59; 1.64)) and an increased risk of mental health risk (OR: 1.36 (95% CI: 1.09; 1.69)). ORs of 1.48 (95% CI: 1.21; 1.81) for emotional problems, 1.40 (95% CI: 1.15; 1.70) for conduct problems, and 2.25 (95% CI: 1.83; 2.77) for problems with peers were estimated. This association of weight status with mental health difficulties was moderately greater in girls than in boys, although the difference was not statistically significant.
Conclusions Childhood obesity was associated with mental health difficulties, especially emotional symptoms, behavioural problems and relationships with peers. Identifying and responding to these psychological problems should also be an objective in public health policies and procedures for controlling obesity in children.
Autores: Honorato Ortiz-Marrón; Gloria Cabañas Pujadas; Ana Gandarillas Grande; María Victoria Martínez Rubio; Eva María Cabrero López; María Teresa Morales San José; Águeda Quadrado Mercadal; Amelia Astray San Martín; María Isabel Careaga González; Marta González Alcón; Isabel Férriz Vidal; Iñaki Galán
BMC Public Health (2026) 26:857