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Eating Disorders & Who They Affect Eating disorders are major medical and psychiatric problems affecting millions of women in the United States. Although eating disorders mainly affect women, there has been an increasing rise of eating disorders among males in this country. Approximately half to one percent of late adolescent and adult women in this country have Anorexia Nervosa. Approximately one to two percent has Bulimia Nervosa. At any given time, approximately 10 percent of late adolescent and adult women report symptoms of an eating disorder but these symptoms do not fulfill the diagnostic criteria for an eating disorder. These symptoms can cause such distress that the ability to function in daily life becomes impaired. Development of Eating Disorders There are many factors that can contribute to the development of an eating disorder. These may include biological factors, genetics, early onset of puberty, childhood issues, and culture, socio-economics, weight/shape and personality type. There has been increasing research in the field of biology and genetics in the development of eating disorders. A family history of psychiatric disorders or substance abuse appears to increase the risk for eating disorders. Behavioral genetic studies indicate a substantial genetic effect for the development of Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa. There is also an indication that brain chemistry also plays a role in eating disorders, particularly the neurotransmitter serotonin. Many studies indicate that certain brain chemicals may be abnormal in individuals with eating disorders. Early onset of puberty is thought to increase the risk of eating disorders. In addition, childhood eating problems as well as childhood sexual abuse has also been associated with an increased risk for the development of eating disorders. Higher than “normal” BMI, concerns about weight and a history of dieting as well as a history of depression, anxiety and substance abuse also appears to increase the risk for eating disorders. Cultural Factors Females and certain ethnic groups have a higher risk of Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa, while males tend to have a higher risk for Binge Eating Disorders. In addition, Asian Americans, African Americans and Native Americans are less likely to develop an eating disorder. In the past, individuals from a higher socio-economic class seemed to have a higher incidence of eating disorders; however, in recent years, our society has seen an increase in all eating disorders in all socio-economic classes. |
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