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The spectrum of eating disturbances
C M Shisslak1, M Crago, L S Estes
1Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson 85719, USA.
Objective:
The purpose of this paper was to review and summarize the research literature on the spectrum of eating disturbances.
Method:
Literature was searched using a computer data base to identify recent articles related to the prevalence and occurrence of disturbed eating patterns as well as full and partial syndrome eating disorders (EDs).
Results:
This review indicates that the prevalence of partial syndrome EDs in nonclinical populations is at least twice that of full syndrome EDs, and that there is a progression in some individuals from less to more severe disturbances in eating behavior.
Discussion:
These findings suggest the need for careful, scientific evaluation of risk factors for EDs in both children and adults. A longitudinal research program in progress is described which aims to identify the risk factors for EDs.