Changes in body mass index and behavioral health among adolescents in military families during the COVID-19 pandemic: A retrospective cohort study
Research Report:
Research SummaryAPA Citation:
Koehlmoos, T. P., Madsen, C., Banaag, A., & Adirim, T. (2023). Changes in body mass index and behavioral health among adolescents in military families during the COVID-19 pandemic: A retrospective cohort study. BMC Public Health, 23(1), Article 1615. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-023-16548-0
Abstract Created by REACH:
This study examined changes in body mass index (BMI) and behavioral health diagnoses (e.g., anxiety disorder, suicidal ideation) among adolescent dependents of active-duty Service members (N = 160,037) from before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Military Health System data from 2017–2018 and 2020–2021 were used. Overall, BMI category (e.g., healthy weight, overweight) proportions remained somewhat stable among adolescents; however, rates of most behavioral health diagnoses showed increases from before to during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Focus:
Physical health
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Subject Affiliation:
Military families
Population:
Childhood (birth - 12 yrs)
Adolescence (13 - 17 yrs)
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Authors:
Koehlmoos, Tracey Pérez, Madsen, Cathaleen, Banaag, Amanda, Adirim, Terry
Abstract:
Widely published findings from the COVID-19 pandemic show adverse effects on body mass index (BMI) and behavioral health in both adults and children, due to factors such as illness, job loss, and limited opportunity for physical and social activity. This study investigated whether these adverse effects were mitigated in adolescents from military families, who are universally insured with consistent access to healthcare, and who generally have at least one parent who must adhere to physical and mental fitness as a condition of employment.
Publication Type:
Article
REACH Publication
Keywords:
adolescent behavioral health, adolescent health, COVID-19, electronic health records, large datasets
REACH Publication Type:
Research Summary
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