Sex-specific associations of body mass index with mood disturbance during smoking abstinence

Objective: Previous reports have suggested an inverse relationship between body mass index (BMI) and negative mood in women. However, little is known about the potential association of these variables under stressful conditions, such as those experienced during smoking cessation. The current investigation examined the relationship of BMI and various indices of mood in a sample of male and female cigarette smokers undergoing cessation. Methods: Along with baseline assessments of variables such as depression and anxiety, total mood disturbance and perceived stress were assessed via self-report during both baseline (e.g. the smoking period) and the early phases of smoking cessation. Results: Among female participants, higher BMI was associated with lower levels of mood disturbance, perceived stress and depression. Similar analyses in male participants were non-significant. Conclusions: The results of the current study confirm previous reports regarding the relationship of BMI and mood in women and extend these findings to the early stages of smoking cessation.