Prevalence of obesity among U.S. population with substance dependence.
Level 4 - case-series / case-control
Cross-sectional survey analysis
PubMed 32980787 · doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.108293
What was done
Researchers analyzed cross-sectional data from the U.S. National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH, 2015-2017) to evaluate associations between substance dependence (heroin, stimulant, marijuana, nicotine, and alcohol) and obesity (body mass index >= 30 kg/m2) among noninstitutional U.S. residents aged 12 years or older. Multivariable survey logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (AORs), adjusting for sociodemographic factors and health conditions.
What was found
In the sampled population, 10.6% were nicotine-dependent, 3.0% alcohol-dependent, 1.0% marijuana-dependent, 0.6% stimulant-dependent, and 0.2% heroin-dependent. Heroin dependence was associated with lower odds of obesity (AOR = 0.41; 95% CI: 0.28-0.60; p < 0.0001). Lower odds of obesity were also observed for marijuana dependence (AOR = 0.64; 95% CI: 0.56-0.73; p < 0.0001), nicotine dependence (AOR = 0.68; 95% CI: 0.64-0.72; p < 0.0001), and alcohol dependence (AOR = 0.77; 95% CI: 0.69-0.84; p < 0.0001). The association for stimulant dependence was not statistically significant (AOR = 0.84; 95% CI: 0.68-1.02; p = 0.0825).
Why it matters
This study shows consistent inverse associations between dependence on multiple substances and obesity in a representative U.S. population sample. The findings highlight the need for addiction treatment clinicians to monitor weight changes during recovery.
Limits
The total sample size is not stated in the abstract. The cross-sectional survey design precludes determining causal or temporal relationships. The abstract does not report whether substance use and BMI were self-reported or objectively verified.
Cited by
- contradicts Individuals with an alcohol use disorder are approximately 70% more likely to also be overweight.