A new study has revealed the disturbing trend of disordered eating among children and adolescents.
The results are concerning, as the study found that more than 1 in 5 children and adolescents, or 22.36 percent of the 63,181 participants from 16 countries, showed signs of disordered eating.
Gender and age were significant factors in the prevalence of disordered eating, with the proportion of girls presenting disordered eating being significantly higher than that of boys.
JAMA Network also found that the proportion of disordered eating among children and adolescents increased with age and Body Mass Index (BMI).
These findings suggest that disordered eating is a global health issue that requires urgent intervention, particularly for girls and young people with a higher BMI.
Disordered eating in children and adolescents
Disordered eating is a broad term that refers to a range of abnormal eating behaviors, including binge eating, purging, and restrictive eating, that may not meet the criteria for an eating disorder diagnosis.
According to CNN, while not all kids and teens who exhibit disordered eating habits will go on to receive an eating disorder diagnosis, disordered eating during childhood and adolescence may predict outcomes linked to eating disorders in their early adult lives.
The study also found that girls were more likely to present with disordered eating than boys, and the prevalence of disordered eating increased with age and BMI.
The study's authors suggested that these findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to prevent the onset of disordered eating and related health problems among young people, particularly young girls with a higher BMI.
The study, published in JAMA Pediatrics, examined the overall proportion of children and adolescents with disordered eating in terms of gender, mean age and BMI.
The harmful impact of disordered eating
Disordered eating can have serious health consequences, including nutritional deficiencies, weight fluctuations, and gastrointestinal problems.
As per the New York Post, the authors of the meta-analysis claimed that eating disorders are among the most life-threatening psychiatric issues, and those with such conditions die much younger than the general population by 10-20 years.
On the other hand, disordered eating can also be extremely harmful, especially for youngsters, making them susceptible to various health problems, such as metabolic issues, osteoporosis, and being more prone to experiencing headaches.
Disordered eating can also cause significant distress and impair functioning, affecting an individual's mental health and quality of life.
The study's high proportion of children and adolescents presenting disordered eating concerns parents and health professionals.
It is suggested that early intervention and prevention strategies are essential to reducing the risk and harmful impact of disordered eating and related health problems.
The findings of this study underscore the need for urgent action to address the growing trend of disordered eating among children and adolescents.
Parents, healthcare professionals, and educators must work together to identify and prevent disordered eating behaviors and promote healthy eating habits.
Early intervention and prevention strategies can help reduce the risk of developing eating disorders and related health problems, ultimately improving the health and well-being of young people worldwide.
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