Share

Eating disorder myth refuted

A study has refuted the popular myth that eating disorders affect white people only.

Among Native Americans, women are more likely than men to develop eating disorders, a new study finds.

The researchers also found similarities between Native American and white women in terms of binge eating, purging and ever having been diagnosed with an eating disorder, according to the report published in the International Journal of Eating Disorders.

"This commonality between Native American and white women refutes the myth that eating disorders are problems that only affect white girls and women," study leader Ruth Striegel-Moore, a professor at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Conn., said in a news release from the journal's publisher.

No difference between men

The study authors also found no significant differences between Native American and white men, which they say provides further evidence that eating disorders are not restricted to a certain race.

For this study, the researchers analysed data from more than 10,000 men and women in the United States, average age 22, who took part in the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health. There were 236 women and 253 men who were either Native American or Inuit.

"This research provides us with a first glimpse into the extent to which young adult Native American populations experience behavioural symptoms of eating disorders," concluded Striegel-Moore.

"In the eating disorder field this type of epidemiological study has lagged behind other research, but now we have a foundation to study the distribution of eating disorders and identify psychological risk factors in Native American populations."

(HealthDay News, January 2011)

Read more:

Diet and nutrition: eating disorders

Secondhand television exposure linked to eating disorders

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE