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Updated: May 13, 2026

A Computer-Based Platform for Aiding Clinicians in Eating Disorder Analysis and Diagnosis
Published on: May 10, 2022
Predictors of dropout from in-patient treatment of eating disorders: an Italian experience
L Pingani1, S Catellani, F Arnone
1International PhD School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy. trp@unimore.it
Introduction:
The aim of the study was to examine possible risk factors for dropout from in-patient treatment for eating disorders (ED).
Materials And Methods:
The present study consisted of a retrospective analysis of clinical and non-clinical available information about 186 patients suffering from ED consecutively admitted into the Villa Maria Luigia Private Hospital (Parma, Italy) in a three-year period (01/01/2006 - 31/12/2009). Sociodemographics, clinical history and current features, and results to the following psychometric instruments were analysed: Eating Disorder Questionnaire (EDQ), Predisposing, On-set and Maintaining risk factors list for Eating Disorders, Eating Disorders Inventory-II, Body Uneasiness Test and SCL-90.
Results:
Of the 186 patients, 46 (24.7%) voluntarily left the treatment program prematurely. Predictive factors included poor educational and professional achievements, parents' divorcing, parents' history of substance abuse and difficulties in interpersonal relationships.
Discussion:
Dropout is a multifactorial phenomenon with deep clinical consequences: the recognition of possible risk factors may support the choice of specific therapeutic strategies to improve the treatment of ED and its outcomes.
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