Obesità e Psicopatologia: differenze di genere

摘要

The aim of the study was to evaluate the frequency of association between obesity, DSM-IV Axis I and II disorders and use of mental health services according to gender, in a clinical sample of patients attending a centre for the diagnosis and treatment of Obesity. A sample of 150 consecutive patients (32 males and 118 females) underwent comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, by means of SCID-I and SCID-II, and an assessment of psychopathology, global functioning and clinical severity respectively by means of SCL-90-R, GAF and CGI scale. An high rate of psychiatric disorders, particularly mood, anxiety, eating and personality disorders, was detected in this study, particularly in women. The results underline the importance of an early and careful psychiatric evaluation of patients who seek treatment for weight problems, with special reference to females.