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Gender differences in patients with binge eating disorder
Declan T Barry1, Carlos M Grilo, Robin M Masheb
1Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA.
The International Journal of Eating Disorders
|February 9, 2002
Summary
Men and women with binge eating disorder (BED) share similar eating disorder symptoms but differ in physical characteristics and some psychological features. Men tend to have higher BMIs and more past drug abuse issues.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Eating Disorders Research
Background:
- Binge eating disorder (BED) affects a significant number of individuals, with varying presentations across genders.
- Understanding gender-specific nuances in BED is crucial for targeted treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and delineate gender differences in the clinical presentation of binge eating disorder (BED).
- To compare developmental, physical, and psychological features between male and female BED patients.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 182 adults (35 male, 147 female) meeting DSM-IV criteria for BED were assessed.
- A comprehensive battery of measures evaluated developmental history, eating and weight disturbances, and psychological characteristics.
Main Results:
- Men with BED had higher BMIs and obesity rates, and reported more past drug abuse than women.
- No significant gender differences were found in age of overweight onset, dieting, binge eating onset, or weight cycling.
- Women reported greater body image dissatisfaction and drive for thinness, while core eating disorder features and mood/self-esteem did not differ significantly.
Conclusions:
- Despite shared core eating disorder features, significant gender disparities exist in BED patients regarding physical health indicators and specific psychological traits.
- These findings highlight the importance of considering gender in the assessment and treatment of BED.