Based on recent study data, out of 160 study participants, more than 50% of the youngsters met all the criteria for depression associated with metabolic syndrome. The study was carried out at a pediatric weight management clinic between July 1, 2018, to December 3, 2021, and all anthropometric, clinical, and laboratory data were collected. The depression was assessed based on Patient Health Questionnaire.    

 The study results showcased at the Pediatric Academic Societies concluded that 46% of the patients scored scores less than 5, which was defined as no clinically significant depression. 26% of the rest had a current or previous diagnosis of depression while the other 25% had moderate to severe depression. The results were associated with increasing weight, body mass index, body fat percentage, diastolic blood pressure, and fasting blood insulin. Also, youngsters who reported daytime fatigue, trouble sleeping, or eating out more than seven times a week had a higher score than the rest of the individuals. 

The results suggested that depression is common, however, it is often undiagnosed in obese adolescents. It also suggests that depression screening should be included in weight and obesity management.

(Source: https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/972629?src= )