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Bidirectional relationship between eating disorders and autoimmune diseases
Anna Hedman1, Lauren Breithaupt1,2, Christopher Hübel1,3
1Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, and Allied Disciplines
|September 5, 2018
Summary
Eating disorders (ED) and autoimmune diseases share a strong bidirectional relationship, particularly in women. This suggests shared underlying mechanisms may link these conditions, impacting risk and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Immune system dysfunction is potentially linked to eating disorders (EDs).
- The relationship between EDs and autoimmune diseases requires further investigation for detection, risk assessment, and treatment.
- Understanding the bidirectional associations between EDs and autoimmune diseases is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the strength of bidirectional relationships between EDs and autoimmune diseases.
- To investigate the subsequent risk of EDs in individuals with autoimmune diseases.
- To examine the subsequent risk of autoimmune diseases in individuals with EDs.
Main Methods:
- Nationwide population-based study using linked Swedish registers.
- Cohort of over 2.5 million individuals born between 1979 and 2005, followed until 2013.
- Cox proportional hazard regression models to assess bidirectional risks.
Main Results:
- A strong bidirectional relationship was observed between EDs and autoimmune diseases.
- In women, autoimmune diseases increased the risk of anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), and other eating disorders (OED), and vice versa.
- Specific associations included gastrointestinal diseases with AN/OED, psoriasis with OED, and type 1 diabetes with AN/BN/OED.
Conclusions:
- The observed interactions support previously reported associations between EDs and autoimmune diseases.
- The bidirectional risk pattern in women suggests shared mechanisms or mediating variables.
- Further research into these shared pathways is warranted for improved clinical management.
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