Disordered Eating Behaviors in Young Adult Cancer Survivors: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Disordered eating behaviors pose significant health risks, yet evidence among young adult (YA) cancer survivors is limited. We examined the prevalence and associated factors of disordered eating attitudes and binge eating symptoms in YA survivors (18-39 years). Participants (n = 173) completed surveys assessing eating attitudes and behaviors, food security, and demographics. Briefly, 21.5% reported high concern for disordered eating attitudes, and 26.6% had moderate-severe binge eating risk. Both outcomes were significantly associated with weight-related concerns (β = 0.45 and β = 0.46) and socioeconomic advantage (β = 0.31 and β = 0.22). Food insecurity predicted higher binge eating (β = 0.22). Screening, education, and resource provision in survivorship care are needed.