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Eating attitudes in high school students in the Philippines: a preliminary study
C R Lorenzo1, P W Lavori, J D Lock
1Department of Psychiatry, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California 94305, USA.
Eating and Weight Disorders : EWD
|November 28, 2002
Summary
Abnormal eating attitudes are present in Filipino high school students, with prevalence rates similar to Western countries. Further research into eating disorders and associated risks is recommended.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent health
- Psychological well-being
- Eating disorder research
Background:
- Eating disorders pose significant risks to adolescent health.
- Understanding the prevalence of abnormal eating attitudes is crucial for early intervention.
- Limited data exists on eating attitudes among Filipino high school students.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of abnormal eating attitudes in high school students.
- To investigate potential correlations between eating attitudes, BMI, and depression.
- To provide baseline data for future eating disorder research in the Philippines.
Main Methods:
- Administered Eating Attitudes Test (EAT) and Beck's Depression Inventory (BDI) to 932 students.
- Measured height and weight to calculate Body Mass Index (BMI).
- Statistical analysis to determine prevalence and correlations.
Main Results:
- Prevalence of abnormal eating attitudes was 14.5% (males) and 15.0% (females).
- Rates are comparable to those reported in Western countries.
- Weak correlations found between EAT scores and BMI (r=0.180) and BDI scores (r=0.187).
Conclusions:
- Confirms the presence of abnormal eating attitudes among Filipino high school students.
- Highlights the need for further investigation into eating disorders and their associated risks in this population.
- Suggests the potential utility of EAT and BDI in screening Filipino adolescents.