Relationship of domain-specific quality of life with body mass index and waist circumference in a Korean elderly population

Background Obesity affects health-related quality of life (QoL); however, their relationship among elderly Asians is not well known. Aims Relationship of domain-specific QoL with body mass index ( BMI) and waist circumference and the sex differences were investigated using a nationally representative sample of elderly Korean population. Methods In the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey phase VII (2016–2018), 3659 adults aged ≥ 65 years (1551 men and 2108 women) participated. BMI and waist circumference were classified according to Asian- and Korean-specific criteria. QoL was evaluated using the European Quality of Life Scale-Five Dimensions (EQ-5D). Multivariable logistic regressions were used to examine the relationship of QoL with BMI and waist circumference. Results Men with BMI < 18.5 kg/m 2 and ≥ 25.0 kg/m 2 had a significant association with poor QoL in mobility and self-care, but no relationship was found with the other domains. Women with BMI ≥ 25.0 kg/m 2 had poor QoL in mobility and self-care, and those with BMI ≥ 30.0 kg/m 2 had poor QoL in usual activities and pain/discomfort. There was no significant association with anxiety/depression. Both elderly men and women with abdominal obesity had a significant association with poor QoL in mobility, self-care, usual activities, and pain/discomfort; however, there was no significant relationship with waist circumference and anxiety/depression. Conclusions The association between QoL and BMI was different according to sex and the domains of QoL. Domain-specific QoL should be considered in the management of body weight of the elderly.