Abstract:
Introduction: Undernutrition is an insufficient intake of food and nutrients. It is a major public health problem among patients with major mental disorders, particularly in developing countries. Little is known about the nutritional status of patients with major mental disorders in developing countries including Ethiopia.
Objective: This study aimed to assess the magnitude of undernutrition and associated factors among adult patients with major mental disorders attending follow-up at Saint Paul Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, 2024.
Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from May to June 2024 among 338 systematically selected adult patients with major mental disorders. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire, anthropometric measurements (body mass index and mid-upper arm circumference), and chart review. Data entry and analysis were performed using Epidata version 4.6.0.6 and SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics, like frequency, percentage, mean, median, and standard deviation were computed, and multicollinearity was assessed using a tolerance cut-off value < 0.1. Variables with a P-value < 0.25 in bivariate analysis were entered into a multivariate logistic regression to identify significantly associated factors. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05 using adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Model fitness was assessed using the Hosmer and Lemeshow goodness of fit test (P = 0.74).
Results: The magnitude of undernutrition was 36.1% (95% CI: 33.5–38.7). Significantly associated factors were younger age (18–26 years [AOR = 2.6, 95% CI: 1.8–6]; 27–35 years [AOR = 1.5, 95% CI: 1.2–5.2]), rural residence (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.3–5.4), lack of family support (AOR = 2.7, 95% CI: 1.3–4.8), having comorbid diseases (AOR = 2.8, 95% CI: 2–6.4), substance use (AOR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.6–5.1), and taking antidepressant medications (AOR = 2.7, 95% CI: 1.3–5.9).
Conclusion: Undernutrition affects 36.1% of adult patients with major mental disorders. Younger ages, rural residence, lack of family support, comorbid diseases, substance use, and antidepressant medication use were significantly associated factors. Integrating nutritional interventions into mental health care is needed for patients with major mental disorders
