ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between weight-related attitudes and suicidal ideation among adults. METHODS: Data were obtained from the Fifth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, a cross-sectional national health survey. We used a nationally representative sample of 12287 Koreans older than 19 years of age (5266 men and 7021 women). We used the logistic regression model to examine the relationship between weight-related attitudes and suicidal ideation, controlling for demographics, depressive mood, perceived stress, and substance use. RESULTS: A significantly higher number of women than men reported suicidal ideation (women : 18.3%, men : 10.3%). In men, weight control behavior aimed at weight loss (vs. no control) showed an association with suicidal ideation. For women, weight control behavior aimed at maintaining a certain weight (vs. no control) and obesity (vs. being underweight), as determined by Body Mass Index category, showed an association with suicidal ideation. For both sexes, distortions regarding perceived weight did not significantly affect suicidal ideationn. CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that weight-related attitudes, such as weight control behaviors, are useful indicators for identification of individuals at risk of committing suicide.