By: Zjeyoni Moore
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (UATV) – National Eating Disorder Awareness Week aims to bring attention to a critical condition and often misunderstood health crisis affecting millions of Americans.
According to National Eating Disorders Association, 9% of the U.S. population, or 28.8 million people, will experience an eating disorder in their lifetime. These disorders, which include anorexia, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder, have critical mental and physical effects and can be fatal if left untreated.
Dr. Debbie Deere, a physician at the University of Arkansas’ Pat Walker Health Center and medical director of its eating disorder treatment team, emphasizes that eating disorders are complex illnesses that impact individuals across all demographics.
“One of the biggest myths with eating disorders is that there is a certain look, but the reality is you cannot tell if someone has an eating disorder just by looking at them,” Deere said. Eating disorders affect all genders, ages, sizes, races, and socioeconomic classes.
The prevalence of eating disorders is increasing worldwide. A 2019 study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that global eating disorder rates nearly doubled from 3.5% to 7.8% between 2000 and 2018. Additionally, 22% of children and adolescents worldwide exhibit disordered eating behaviors, according to a 2023 study in JAMA Pediatrics.
Eating disorders have the second highest mortality rate of any psychiatric illness, behind opioid addiction. Research from Deloitte Access Economics finds that one person dies every 52 minutes as a direct consequence of an eating disorder.
Dr. Deere explains that eating disorders are biopsychosocial disorders, meaning they affect all aspects of an individual’s life. Eating disorders impact hormones, body function, and overall physical health. For those suffering from an eating disorder, the road to recovery requires comprehensive treatment.
“I wish it were as easy as just eat more,” Deere said. “But the brain gets in the way.” Effective treatment involves medical monitoring, counseling and collaboration with a dietitian or nutritionist.
Because of widespread misconceptions, many individuals struggling with eating disorders do not seek help. Friends and family members can play a crucial role in offering support without judgment. Deere says it’s important to acknowledge someone’s struggle and be mindful of the language people use about themselves and others.
“It’s essential to normalize eating and self-care and be aware of how discussions around food and body image can impact those around you,” Deere Said.
The University of Arkansas offers several resources for students dealing with eating disorders, including specialized counselors, a full-time dietitian, and medical monitoring. While medical visits are dependent on insurance, counseling and dietitian services are free for students.
As National Eating Disorders Awareness Week highlights the increasing prevalence and devasting effects of these disorders, experts urge continued education and accessible treatment. With more than 3.3 million lives lost annually worldwide die to eating disorders, the need for awareness and action has never been greater
. For those struggling, help is available. If you or someone you know is battling an eating disorder, resources such as the National Eating Disorders Association helpline (1-800-931-2237) provide support and guidance. Recognizing the signs and seeking help early can be life-saving.
