Who is affected by anorexia nervosa

Although anorexia nervosa is not common, affecting only 5 to 10 people out of every 100,000 people, it is a growing problem.¹ Anorexia nervosa is more common in industrialized countries, where lack of food is not generally a problem and thinness is prized.

You are more likely to develop anorexia nervosa if you:²

• Are female. Although males can develop anorexia, it is rare. For every 10 females who develop anorexia, approximately 1 male does.
• Are a white adolescent from a Western society, although people all over the world from all races and age groups develop anorexia.
• Participate in sports or work in a profession that requires a certain body type. Examples include:
  • Athletes (such as runners, wrestlers, figure skaters, swimmers, gymnasts, or jockeys).
  • Models.
  • Ballet dancers.
  • Actors.
• Have a sister, brother, or parent who has anorexia.

Citations

1. Agras WS (2005). The eating disorders. In DC Dale, DD Federman, eds., Scientific American Medicine, section 13, chap. 9. New York: WebMD.

2. Fairburn CG, Harrison PJ (2003). Eating disorders. Lancet, 361(9355): 407-416.