Are eating disorders on the rise?
The answer is “yes” — the prevalence of eating disorders is growing more rapidly than one may think. In fact, CBS recently reported that in the past decade, eating disorder treatment centers have seen a 40-50% jump in the number of eating disorder patients over 35 years of age who were seeking help. This is interesting that what used to be viewed as a teenage or young adult disorder has jumped into middle-aged society. Dr. Cynthia Bulk, director of UNC Center for Eating disorders, has discussed how healthcare providers need to start examining the fact that men, people of all races, and people of all cultures are fighting eating disorders – not just women. It’s important to note that eating disorders don’t discriminate. You cannot tell by someone’s size or shape whether they have an eating disorder. Menopause, divorce, surgery/illness, retirement and having an “empty nest” have been shown to increase the prevalence of eating disorders in older women. In the past, many assumed that the onset of puberty or lack of social acceptance were the only triggers for eating disorders, but research is showing that older individuals are now struggling with eating disorders as well.
That’s not to say that young people are not continuing to struggle with eating disorders as well. CNN cited a study recently by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. This study showed that hospitalizations for eating disorders in children under 12 increased by 119% between 1999 and 2006. More recent numbers are unavailable, but CNN indicates, experts say the problem isn’t getting any better. The main problem that CNN reports is that “fat is the new ugly” on the playground. In other words, children and youth are feeling judged for their body weight and are taking drastic measure to avoid being teased or looked down on.
The main thing that society can do to help decrease the amount of eating disorders is to be aware of those who may be struggling. As previously mentioned, eating disorders may not show up outwardly. Some people afflicted with eating disorders look frail and thin, while others may be overweight. Often, behaviors associated with eating disorders are kept hidden and so the eating disorders aren’t discovered. If you think someone you love is struggling with an eating disorder, or if you feel you are, it’s very important to seek help – especially because of the physical damage caused to the body by years of engaging in poor eating habits.