Eating Disorders: A Public Health Perspective
Abstract
There are six primary eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder (BED), avoidant restrictive food intake disorder, pica, and rumination disorder. The purpose of this project is to identify the underlying patterns between cultural taboos and/or low food insecurity (FI) and the likelihood of developing an eating disorder. It was hypothesized that if either cultural taboo about eating or low food insecurity is present, then the development of an eating disorder is more likely. A comprehensive literature review extracted keywords and reoccurring patterns from various primary and secondary sources. The hypothesis was partially supported, as the two factors have no direct correlation. However, both FI and cultural taboos share underlying psychological, economic, and social pressures factors to the development of an ED. Specifically, children who experience food insecurity are consistently linked to a higher risk of (ED) factors and symptoms, including a preoccupation with weight management and an increased link to BED in the future. Additionally, cultural influences, societal standards, and dissatisfaction with body weight, especially among ethnic minorities, contribute to the risk of developing eating disorders. Current interventions, including questionnaires and food programs, are in limited progress. Changes in government funding and adaptive education programs in diverse settings are needed. It is vital to address the underlying issue of an ED in vulnerable populations with an early and practical plan. Ensuring support and providing comprehensive eating disorder (ED) interventions are crucial and impactful strides towards positive change.
Faculty Sponsors
Dr. Tonni Bacoat-Jones
Project Type
Event
Location
Alvin Sherman Library
Start Date
4-3-2024 12:30 PM
End Date
4-4-2024 1:30 PM
Eating Disorders: A Public Health Perspective
Alvin Sherman Library
There are six primary eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder (BED), avoidant restrictive food intake disorder, pica, and rumination disorder. The purpose of this project is to identify the underlying patterns between cultural taboos and/or low food insecurity (FI) and the likelihood of developing an eating disorder. It was hypothesized that if either cultural taboo about eating or low food insecurity is present, then the development of an eating disorder is more likely. A comprehensive literature review extracted keywords and reoccurring patterns from various primary and secondary sources. The hypothesis was partially supported, as the two factors have no direct correlation. However, both FI and cultural taboos share underlying psychological, economic, and social pressures factors to the development of an ED. Specifically, children who experience food insecurity are consistently linked to a higher risk of (ED) factors and symptoms, including a preoccupation with weight management and an increased link to BED in the future. Additionally, cultural influences, societal standards, and dissatisfaction with body weight, especially among ethnic minorities, contribute to the risk of developing eating disorders. Current interventions, including questionnaires and food programs, are in limited progress. Changes in government funding and adaptive education programs in diverse settings are needed. It is vital to address the underlying issue of an ED in vulnerable populations with an early and practical plan. Ensuring support and providing comprehensive eating disorder (ED) interventions are crucial and impactful strides towards positive change.
