Binge eating and other psychopathology in patients with type II diabetes mellitus

Type II diabetes mellitus (DM), a common disease with many potential complications, is strongly associated with obesity. Alterations in food consumption can dramatically alter glucose control in individuals with Type II DM. Binge eating disorder (BED) is also closely associated with obesity. The nature of the relationship, if any, between Type II DM and BED is unclear.

Forty-three individuals (23 females, 20 males) with Type II DM were assessed using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV (SCID-I), the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ), and the Impact of Weight Scale. The most recent hemoglobin A1c level was recorded. Height and weight were also measured.

Eleven subjects (25.6%) were diagnosed with BED. Individuals with BED had higher body mass index (BMI) scores, higher TFEQ Disinhibition and Hunger scores, and higher scores on all Impact of Weight subscales (except eating) compared with those without BED. Glycosylated hemoglobin levels did not differ between the two groups (8.1% vs. 8.4%; p = 0.553).

Rates of BED in subjects with Type II DM were substantial. Other types of psychopathology were also common. Although glycosylated hemoglobin levels were similar in patients with and without BED, the presence of BED was associated with greater obesity. Assessment for BED is an important aspect of the management of patients with Type II DM.