Quality of Life and Psychological Well-Being in Obesity Management

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to review the Quality of Life and Psychological Well-Being in Obesity Management. Methods: Literature on psychological and behavioral issues in obesity treatment was explored. Results: Obesity is rapidly becoming one of the most important health concerns in developed countries worldwide. The increasing prevalence of obesity places significant burdens on individuals and healthcare systems. In addition to its clear clinical effects, obesity carries a substantial burden in personal terms, as measured by reduced daily functioning, and by general, health-related and obesity-specific quality-of- life (QoL) metrics. QoL has been defined as the effect of medical conditions on well being and physical and mental function, reflecting the functional effects of a disease as perceived by the patient. Hence, individuals living with obesity are subject to considerable stigma, which they may internalize and experience as shame, depression and anxiety. The negative impact of obesity on the four main domains of QOL(physical health, mental health, social functioning, and vocational functioning) largely outweighs physical symptoms and its associated co-morbidities, such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and coronary heart disease. Obesity per se is a cause of discrimination in several areas of social life. Psychological disturbances, frequently observed in obese people, are likely to further impair the perceived health status. Conclusion: A quantitative measurement of QOL (including the physical and mental dimensions) is critical in defining strategies to improve patients’ reported outcomes.