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Updated: Sep 19, 2025
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A Computer-Based Platform for Aiding Clinicians in Eating Disorder Analysis and Diagnosis
Published on: May 10, 2022
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Gender differences in eating disorders
Elena Ilaria Capuano1, Angela Ruocco2, Beatrice Scazzocchio2
1National Centre for Control and Evaluation of Medicines, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
Frontiers in Nutrition
|June 18, 2025
Summary
Eating disorders (EDs) affect males and females differently. Increased attention on males reveals unique challenges, necessitating gender-informed prevention and early intervention strategies for better outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Gender Studies
- Public Health
Background:
- Eating disorders (EDs) are complex mental health conditions with global prevalence.
- Etiology involves genetic, biological, psychological, sociocultural, and environmental factors.
- Historically, EDs are more frequently diagnosed in females, with potential medical and psychiatric complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an updated understanding of gender differences in EDs.
- To focus on the male population to improve clinical interventions.
- To highlight emerging research on sexual orientation, gender identity, and EDs.
Main Methods:
- A narrative review of scientific literature.
- Analysis of major databases: PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar.
- Focus on recent studies addressing male EDs.
Main Results:
- Growing attention reveals significant gender differences in ED prevalence, onset, phenomenology, diagnosis, comorbidities, and outcomes.
- Emerging research indicates a link between sexual orientation/gender identity and EDs.
- Data suggest an increasing prevalence of EDs in males.
Conclusions:
- Healthcare professionals require gender-competent training to address EDs effectively.
- Prevention and early intervention, particularly during puberty and adolescence, are critical.
- Public health initiatives should target males to promote healthy body image and reduce stigma, encouraging help-seeking behavior.
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