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Secret patterns: validation of a screening tool to detect bulimia
K M Freund1, R D Boss, E K Handleman
1Department of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Massachusetts 02118-2334, USA.
Journal of Women'S Health & Gender-Based Medicine
|January 22, 2000
Summary
A simple two-question screening tool can help physicians identify patients with potential bulimia nervosa. This validated tool aids in early detection and further evaluation for this eating disorder.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Eating Disorders
Background:
- Bulimia nervosa is a significant eating disorder requiring effective screening methods.
- Early identification of bulimia nervosa is crucial for timely intervention and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively validate a brief, two-item screening tool for identifying bulimia nervosa in a clinical setting.
- To assess the diagnostic accuracy of the screening tool against a gold standard assessment.
Main Methods:
- A prospective validation study involving 75 subjects from a women's health practice.
- Subjects completed a two-item screening questionnaire at their initial visit.
- Validation was performed against a telephone interview conducted by a licensed psychologist.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of current bulimia nervosa was determined to be 16% based on psychologist assessment.
- The screening tool demonstrated a sensitivity of 75% and a specificity of 49%.
- Positive and negative predictive values were 22% and 91%, respectively, compared to the gold standard.
Conclusions:
- The two-item screening tool is a viable method for physicians to identify patients who may have bulimia nervosa.
- This tool facilitates further clinical evaluation for potential eating disorders in primary care settings.