Association between physical multimorbidity and suicidal ideation in young adults with obesity

Background: Obesity is associated with multimorbidity and both, have an impact on physical and mental health. Previous studies suggested a possible relationship between obesity, multimorbidity and suicidal spectrum, but few studies focused on this association notably in young adults. The aim of the present study was to examine the co-occurring effect of multimorbidity and obesity on suicidal ideation. Methods: Cross-sectional analysis of the Canadian Community Health Survey data was conducted. Data from a sample of young adults (18 to 30 years-old) with obesity, of the 2005 (n = 394) and 2015–2016 (n = 295) cycles were analyzed. Multimorbidity, suicidal ideation, and health behaviours were self-reported. Results: The prevalence of physical multimorbidity was 12 % in 2005 and 16 % in 2015–2016. Logistic regressions showed an association between multimorbidity and suicidal ideation (2005: OR 3.05, 95 % CI 1.56–5.98; 2015–2016: OR 2.85, 95 % CI 1.40–5.78). Among covariates, the significant association of sex (OR 1.89; 95 % CI 1.11–3.21) and educational status (OR 3.19; 95 % CI 1.47–6.94) in the 2005 cycle, were not replicated in the 2015–2016 cycle (sex: OR 1.01; 95 % CI 0.55–1.85; education: OR 0.97; 95 % CI 0.48–1.96). Finally, no consistent association between health behaviours and suicidal ideation was found. Limitations: Data were self-reported, consequently, we cannot discard the possibility of a reporting bias. The study was cross-sectional so no directional conclusion or causality can be drawn. Conclusion: Multimorbidity is associated with suicidal ideation among those with obesity. Attention should be given to chronic disease prevention in young people, as the development of suicidal ideation may also be prevented.