A study on binge eating behavior in urban adolescents
Riteeka Dikshit1, Sagar Karia1, Nilesh Shah1
1Department of Psychiatry, Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College, Mumbai, India.
Asian Journal of Psychiatry
|April 2, 2020
Summary
Binge eating behavior is prevalent in urban Indian adolescents, particularly among females and those from middle-class families. This behavior is linked to obesity, overweight, and irregular menstruation, highlighting a growing public health concern.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Adolescent Health
- Nutritional Psychiatry
Background:
- Rising rates of obesity and lifestyle disorders in India disproportionately affect adolescents.
- Binge eating behavior is a recognized concern within this demographic.
- Understanding the prevalence and correlates of binge eating in Indian adolescents is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of binge eating behavior among urban adolescents in Mumbai.
- To identify socio-demographic factors associated with binge eating behavior.
- To explore the relationship between binge eating and other health indicators like obesity and menstrual irregularities.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 2000 English-speaking adolescents from Mumbai schools.
- Administration of the Binge Eating Scale and Eating Behaviors and Pattern Questionnaire.
- Statistical analysis using Chi-square tests and ANOVA to determine prevalence and associations.
Main Results:
- Over 85% of adolescents reported moderate to severe binge eating behavior.
- Females and adolescents from upper/lower-middle-class families showed higher prevalence.
- Binge eating was significantly associated with irregular menses, being overweight/obese, frequent eating out, and higher consumption of fried foods.
Conclusions:
- Binge eating behavior is highly prevalent in urban Indian adolescents and is associated with significant health issues.
- The findings suggest binge eating may be a contributing factor to the rising obesity and lifestyle disorders in this population.
- Further large-scale studies are needed to confirm these associations and inform public health strategies.
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