Global research trends and hotspots in overweight/obese comorbid with depression among children and adolescents: A bibliometric analysis.

Background: Overweight/obesity combined with depression among children and adolescents (ODCA) is a global concern. The bidirectional relationship between depression and overweight/obesity often leads to their comorbidity. Childhood and adolescence represent critical periods for physical and psychological development, during which the comorbidity of overweight/obesity and depression may increase the risk of adverse health outcomes.

Aim: To evaluate the relationship between ODCA, we conduct a bibliometric analysis to aid in formulating prevention and treatment strategies.

Methods: From 2004 to 2023, articles related to ODCA were selected using the Science Citation Index Expanded from the Web of Science Core Collection. Bibliometric analysis of relevant publications, including countries/regions, institutions, authors, journals, references, and keywords, was conducted using the online bibliometric analysis platforms, CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and bibliometrix.

Results: Between 2004 and 2023, a total of 1573 articles were published on ODCA. The United States has made leading contributions in this field, with Harvard University emerging as the leading contributor in terms of research output, and Tanofsky being the most prolific author. The J Adolescent Health has shown significant activity in this domain. Based on the results of the keyword and reference analyses, inequality, adverse childhood experiences, and comorbidities have become hot topics in ODCA. Moreover, the impact of balanced-related behavior and exploration of the biological mechanisms, including the potential role of key adipocytokines and lipokines, as well as inflammation in ODCA, have emerged as frontier topics.

Conclusion: The trend of a significant increase in ODCA publications is expected to continue. The research findings will contribute to elucidating the pathogenic mechanisms of ODCA and its prevention and treatment.