Anorexia and Bulimia

Anorexia and bulimia are two types of eating disorders characterized by an obsession with one's weight and the use of extreme measures to control eating behaviors. Anorexia and bulimia can affect both men and women, and no social group, economic class, or culture is immune. Both anorexia and bulimia are often associated with other psychological disorders, such as depression and addiction.

 

Anorexia and Bulimia: An Overview

Anorexia and bulimia are two types of eating disorders. Eating disorders are complex, long-term illnesses largely misunderstood and misdiagnosed. Anorexia and bulimia are on the rise -- both in the United States and worldwide.
 
No one knows exactly what causes anorexia and bulimia. However, all socioeconomic, ethnic, and cultural groups are at risk.
 
Research shows that more than 90 percent of those who have anorexia and bulimia are women between the ages of 12 and 25. However, increasing numbers of older women and men have anorexia and bulimia. In addition, hundreds of thousands of boys are affected by anorexia and bulimia.
 
Anorexia and bulimia often are long-term illnesses that may require long-term treatment. In addition, anorexia and bulimia frequently occur with other mental disorders, such as depression, substance abuse, and anxiety disorders. The earlier anorexia or bulimia is diagnosed and treated, the better the chances are for full recovery.
 
(Click Anorexia or Bulimia to read more about each specific eating disorder.)
 
(Click Eating Disorders to read more about eating disorders in general.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD